The actions you take in the aftermath of a car accident involving passenger cars are clear. Most people know they need to call the police, file an accident report, take photos of their car, and contact each driver’s insurance company. In an accident that involves an 18-wheeler, you may be unsure of your next steps.
A Chicago 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer can explain the steps you should take to recover the medical, property, and personal costs associated with the accident. Have you or a member of your family suffered injuries in an accident with an 18-wheeler? Did a member of your family lose their life in the accident?
Answering yes to either of these questions could mean you are eligible for a claim against the driver, his insurance carrier, the company the driver works for, or the company that built the 18-wheeler. Find out who you should hold responsible by calling the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444 for a free case evaluation today.
Injuries and Fatalities in Accidents Involving 18-Wheelers
Large truck accidents have increased by nearly 31% in the last decade. Accidents involving 18-wheelers can cause severe injuries and deaths. More than 4,100 people were killed in accidents that involved large trucks like 18-wheelers. Recent fatalities as the result of large truck accidents include:
- Truckers and truck occupants (16%)
- Passenger car drivers and occupants (67%)
- Pedestrians and bicyclists (15%)
If a family member was killed in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, your lawyer may be able to help you recover the financial award you deserve. To review your case and possible compensation, call the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm.
Common Injuries in 18-Wheeler Accidents
Of the total number of deaths resulting from car accidents, 11% are caused by collisions with 18-wheelers and other large trucks. In many cases, vehicle occupants, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycle drivers who survive accidents with 18-wheelers suffer serious injuries. Some common injuries reported in large truck accidents include:
- Head injuries ranging from minor to traumatic
- Lacerations ranging from small cuts to deep gashes
- Loss of consciousness and emotional distress
- Broken bones and loss of limbs
- Broken ribs and other chest and abdominal injuries
Injuries you or a family member might suffer in an accident with an 18-wheeler can leave you with a number of limitations. These injuries can lead to an emergency and long-term medical care that can quickly take a toll on your personal finances. You should not be left to cover these bills on your own.
The at-fault driver or his employer should pay for your medical treatments and any other financial losses you incur as a result of the accident. Find out how these costs can be covered by speaking to a Chicago 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer.
Safety Issues and Other Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
On your own, it can be difficult to determine what caused the collision with an 18-wheeler that led to your injuries and property damage or loss. Injuries that require significant recovery time can also make investigating your case and compiling the evidence and proof you need difficult and stressful.
Concentrate on your physical healing while a lawyer in your area starts compiling your case and gets to work uncovering the cause of your accident. Common causes of accidents involving 18-wheelers and other large trucks include:
- Driving too fast
- Driver exhaustion
- Road conditions
- Inclement weather conditions
- Extremely short delivery time frames
- Lack of appropriate driver training
Uncovering the cause of the accident you were involved in is a critical part of your case. Time is of the essence in filing your case.
Contact a Lawyer as Soon as Possible
Recovering from the physical aftermath of a collision with an 18-wheeler can mean spending significant time on hospital stays or on repeated trips to a doctor’s office or rehabilitation facility. Unfortunately, the time you need to start the physical and emotional healing process does not stop the clock from ticking on the time you have to file a claim.
Compiling the evidence and documentation for a comprehensive claim takes time. You can ensure you do not forfeit your right to file a claim by running out of time when you involve a lawyer as early as possible. Your lawyer can start building your case for a favorable financial award while you are still recovering.
The state of Illinois generally allows you up to two years to file a claim for financial recovery. A minor child riding in your car who was injured in the accident and many other factors can alter that timeline. The best way to fully understand how the state’s timeline impacts your claim is to speak with a Chicago 18-wheeler accident attorney for a full understanding of the time frame relevant to your claim.
For a free legal consultation with a 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Chicago, call (800) 794-0444
Discuss Your Recovery Options with A Chicago 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer
Filing a case for financial recovery following an accident with an 18-wheeler could mean pursuing the truck’s driver, the driver’s employer, or the vehicle’s manufacturer. Getting the monetary award you deserve can be a long, complicated process without the assistance of a lawyer.
You do not have to fight alone or settle for a speedy but small financial award package. Your lawyer will help you understand the full compensation package you and your family may be entitled to receive.
The lawyers at the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm work on a contingency fee which means you do not incur out-of-pocket expenses or up-front costs. Call the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444 to speak to a member of our team who can help fight for you and for the compensation you deserve.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form