Getting into the path of a tow truck can be dangerous, especially when a driver rushes to a job at an accident scene. Much like other trucks, tow trucks are heavy, tough to maneuver, and take a long time to come to a complete stop. Unfortunately, getting into an accident with a tow truck can be fatal for car occupants and other road users.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the motor vehicle towing industry has had a higher death rate than other comparable industries in past years. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for tow truck drivers.
If you or a family member are recovering from injuries after an accident with a tow truck, you may be stuck with astronomical medical bills and property damage, not knowing what to do. If you are interested in seeking legal recourse, you can contact an Arlington Heights tow truck accident lawyer who can explain your options to you.
Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for a free case evaluation at (800) 223-5115. We can review the details of your accident and advise of the possible next steps in your case.
Causes for Tow Truck Accidents
We have all seen a tow truck race to the scene of an accident with flashing lights. Tow truck drivers can be under immense time pressure, whether they are self-employed or employed by a tow truck company. The more cars they tow, the more money they earn, so it is easy to see why tow truck drivers do not want to lose any time getting to an accident scene.
A company might also pressure the drivers to take on more work than they can reasonably perform. Ironically, tow truck drivers who attend accident scenes can themselves be responsible for accidents for several reasons, such as:
- Speeding to get to the accident scene quickly
- Driving while tired due to working long hours
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Driving distractedly
- Parking in an unsafe place on highways and roads
- Changing lanes improperly
- Passing improperly
- Not using the correct warning signs at an accident scene
- Loading or securing the tow incorrectly
- Equipment failure
- Losing a towed vehicle
How a Tow Truck Company Could Be Responsible
While truck drivers cause many accidents, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA), a company can also be partially or wholly responsible for your accident. There are many ways in which a tow truck company could be responsible, including:
Vehicle Repair and Inspection
Tow trucks must be maintained, repaired, and regularly serviced, according to federal and state regulations. If a tow truck company wants to cut corners and save on maintenance and vehicle checks, they could be found negligent and responsible for your accident.
Rest Period Violations
A company could be partially responsible for an accident if it has been rushing its drivers. Pressuring drivers into long hours can result in accidents due to fatigued driving.
Negligent Hiring and Training
A tow truck company might be negligent if they fail to train drivers on how to properly handle a tow truck. If the company fails to check a new employee’s qualifications or driving record, they might be liable for your damages.
There is also the possibility of third-party responsibility. If a company contracts out part of its operations, for example, the loading of cargo or maintenance of vehicles, these third parties may also have some responsibilities in accidents. A tow truck manufacturer could also possibly be held accountable if a fault with a truck part caused an accident.
Tow truck accidents can have many variables, making them challenging to understand.
If you are unclear on a matter regarding the accident you were in, you can speak with an Arlington Heights tow truck accident lawyer who might be able to help with your case. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to schedule your free case evaluation.
For a free legal consultation with a Tow Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Arlington, call (800) 223-5115
Compensation in Tow Truck Accidents
If you got hurt in a tow truck accident that was not your fault, you might have medical expenses and other costs that you must pay. If you have suffered injury and property damage, the negligent party should pay for your costs, not you.
In a personal injury claim, you could receive various types of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses and future medical costs
- Lost income and future lost income
- Repair or replacement of your car and any other property damage
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of a limb
- Loss of a sense
Injuries from a tow truck accident can cause lifelong disabilities and the need for long-term costly medical treatments. Do not miss out on the opportunity to hold the negligent driver or company to account for your suffering. Your Arlington Heights tow truck accident lawyer can guide you throughout the entire legal process and protect your rights.
Arlington Tow Truck Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 223-5115
Preparing for a Lawsuit
If you intend to fight for justice and compensation, you will have to take timely action. Failing to file a legal action in time may make you ineligible for recovering compensation. You generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit, per the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) § 735 ILCS 5/13-202, or a wrongful death lawsuit, per the Wrongful Death Act. This two-year period starts on the date of your accident or the death of your loved one.
Click to contact our Tow Truck Accidents Lawyers today
A Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Do not leave your claim to chance or luck. Your truck accident lawyer knows the laws and regulations that tow truck companies must follow. Your lawyer will fight for your rights and adequate compensation for your damages.
If you want to receive compensation, you will have to prove the negligence of the at-fault parties, which an attorney can help you accomplish. Your truck accident lawyer can investigate a tow truck company and third-party vendors comprehensively and gather the crucial evidence to prove negligence.
We work on a “no win, no fee” basis, so you do not need to worry about any upfront attorney’s fees. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm now for your free consultation at (800) 223-5115.
Call or text (800) 223-5115 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form