Car crashes are a threat to public safety in the United States every day. While commuter vehicle crashes can have serious consequences, accidents involving commercial vehicles may tend to have even more significant impact. Delivery vans and trucks, due to their size and weight, can harm passengers and drivers of other vehicles, as well as cyclists and pedestrians.
If you have been injured in an accident involving a delivery van or truck in the Arlington Heights area, an Arlington Heights delivery van truck accident lawyer may be able to support you in seeking monetary compensation for your losses, so you can focus on healing. Consider getting in touch with the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 223-5115 to schedule a no-obligation, free consultation.
Types of Damages Associated with Delivery Truck Accidents
An Arlington Heights delivery van truck accident lawyer can help you identify the type of losses you have suffered. This can include current medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The monetary awards you may receive for your injuries will vary depending on your losses. Some damages associated with delivery van truck accidents are:
- Present and future medical costs
- Lost wages for hours you missed due to incapacitation or doctor’s appointments
- Emotional pain and anguish
- Cost of funeral and burial or cremation expenses if a loved one died as a result of their injuries
Commercial Vehicle Regulations
In addition to traffic laws, commercial vehicles, including delivery vans and trucks, are subject to federal and state laws and regulations on top of those applicable to the general public. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for establishing and enforcing rules related to commercial vehicles.
Drivers must obtain registration and licensure from the FMCSA before they can lawfully operate a commercial vehicle. In order to do so, they must undergo appropriate training. A driver who operates a vehicle without a license or registration may be subject to reprimand including fees or suspension.
The FMCSA also mandates commercial vehicles to undergo regular inspections to ensure they are safe to operate. It can be up to the owner of the vehicle to address them of any issues. If a driver operates a truck that has not passed its inspection, the driver or their company may be liable for damage resulting from this failure to comply with the FMCSA rules.
For a free legal consultation with a Delivery Van Accidents Lawyer serving Arlington Heights, call (800) 223-5115
Causes of Delivery Van Truck Accidents
Delivery van truck accidents may be a result of a number of factors. Sometimes, accidents occur because of a faulty vehicle part. Inadequate driver training or improper loading techniques can cause issues as well. However, some crashes are a result of negligence, such as distracted driving, driving fatigued, or driving under the influence.
According to Illinois State Police, distracted driving contributes to about 1.6 crashes in North America every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines distracted driving as any time a driver takes their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off of driving. According to the CDC, workers are on the road frequently are more likely than others to drive distracted. This may be because they are tired from driving long hours or using their cell phone or GPS device.
In some cases, a lawyer may find the employer liable for accidents caused under these circumstances.
Besides disobeying traffic laws and distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another cause of traffic accidents. Commercial vehicle drivers can be required to take drug tests to reduce the risk. However, drivers whose judgment, alertness, and motor skills are impaired by alcohol, prescription, over-the-counter medications, or other substances still cause accidents every year.
Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to learn more about determining the cause of your delivery van truck accident.
Arlington Heights Delivery Van Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 223-5115
Establishing Liability
With crashes involving personal vehicles, establishing liability may be easier compared to accidents involving commercial vehicles. Sometimes, the delivery van or truck driver is an employee or contractor. Their employer, usually the vehicle owner, has certain responsibilities.
This can include ensuring the driver is adequately trained and licensed and that the vehicle is well-maintained. The employer is also responsible for providing safe work conditions. Likewise, the employer’s insurance may cover accidents caused by their drivers.
Drivers can also be responsible, and, in some cases, their actions fall outside of an employer’s insurance. This is the case for some contracted delivery drivers, who are not employees, for legal purposes. They may also be liable for their actions if they act outside the scope of their professional duties by driving under the influence, for example.
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How an Arlington Heights Delivery Van Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Regardless of the particulars, proving fault and determining how to proceed with seeking compensation can be complicated. You do not have to navigate this challenging endeavor alone. If you have been in a delivery van truck accident in Arlington Heights, a lawyer may be able to provide guidance and support.
The following are some of the ways a lawyer can help:
- Conduct an investigation to demonstrate the circumstances of the crash and who was at fault
- Devise a strategy to seek fair compensation on your behalf
- Help you file a claim with the delivery company insurance company or your own provider, depending on the situation
- Communicate with other involved parties, including insurance companies and legal representatives, and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf
- File a civil suit and represent you in a civil court of law, if necessary
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Get in Touch with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Today
The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm believes you should not have to go through this alone. You should receive just compensation so you can focus on healing and moving forward. Call (800) 223-5115 to speak with a staff member to set up a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.
Call or text (800) 223-5115 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form