Every day, tow trucks help countless drivers take their vehicles to safety after a breakdown on the road. But they are sometimes the cause of traffic accidents, too. And because tow trucks are significantly heavier and bigger than passenger vehicles, even a minor collision with one can have disastrous results. Although there are several state and federal regulations in place for tow truck drivers, this has not prevented some from driving recklessly.
If you or your loved one believes that a tow truck is liable for your personal injuries after an accident, contact an Evanston tow truck accident lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to explore your legal options. You can contact their team today at (800) 794-0444 if you want to avail of their free consultation.
Several Factors Can Lead to an Accident with a Tow Truck
Like other large commercial vehicles, tow trucks require drivers who have a special license and training to operate them. However, tow trucks are unique in the sense that they haul other vehicles. When their drivers become careless or irresponsible, the consequences can be devastating.
Some common issues that can lead to tow truck crashes include the following:
Distracted Driving
Just like other people, tow truck drivers are guilty of distracted driving by taking their eyes off the road to look at their cellphones, GPS, and other sources of distraction inside the vehicle. They may also become too busy talking to dispatch to give their full attention to their driving. These situations can result in mistakes that lead to accidents.
Unsecured Load
Tow trucks transport vehicles that can weigh several tons, and when they fall off the flatbed or get detached from a hook, they can go careening almost anywhere–into buildings, trees, motorists, or even pedestrians. As such, tow truck drivers must know how to attach and secure their load correctly.
Improper Maintenance
A tow truck should never venture out without proper maintenance. This entails checking the tires for correct alignment and inflation, as well as turning signals and amber warning light bars. Winches, hooks, straps, pullies, and flatbeds are essential for the job and must also be in good working order to prevent accidents according to federal motor carrier safety rules. The towing company must train employees on how to inspect these and have a professional mechanic make repairs when necessary.
Reckless Driving
When tow truck drivers disregard road rules, they endanger the lives of other people. Even if they are responding to an emergency, they still need to heed to traffic laws. If they were negligent in their duty to ensure the safety of others, then they should take responsibility for the injury they caused.
Other factors that can contribute to a tow truck accident include a driver’s use of prescription or illegal drugs, failure to yield, fatigue, inexperience, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Seek the counsel of a tow truck accident attorney to learn more about your rights if you are dealing with personal injuries through no fault of your own.
Additional Parties May Be Responsible for Your Tow Truck Accident
A tow truck driver is not the only one who may be liable for an accident. Towing companies must also make sure that their commercial vehicles are fit to travel the roads and highways. They should provide adequate training for their drivers when it comes to proper driving and vehicle maintenance. Anyone who owns a tow truck must take into consideration problems that a driver could encounter while on the job, such as fatigue from long shifts, overloading, mechanical failure, and extreme weather conditions.
While tow truck drivers are responsible for their vehicles to some extent, truck owners create a serious risk by not properly maintaining their trucks. Even if they unintentionally cause a wreck because of improper maintenance, they could still be liable for their negligence. In the same way, a towing company must hire only those who are qualified to drive commercial trucks. For instance, they should conduct a background check to see whether a driver has a record of intoxicated or reckless driving. A lawyer can investigate circumstances surrounding your case and help identify all negligent parties.
Tow Truck Accident Injuries Can Take a Long Time to Heal
The severity of your injury depends on various factors like the weight of the truck, its size, and whether it was hauling another vehicle. Common injuries you could suffer from a tow truck accident can include lacerations, whiplash, concussion, broken bones, spine injury, brain injury, internal bleeding, burns, amputation, and paralysis. Since commercial truck injuries can be considerably more severe than passenger vehicle injuries, it is essential to focus first on healing after your accident. With an accident attorney on your side, rest assured that someone will be working to protect your rights while you receive medical treatment.
For a free legal consultation with a Tow Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Evanston, call (800) 794-0444
Prepare to Deal with Insurance Companies After an Accident
After seeking medical attention for your injuries, you eventually must inform your insurance company about your accident. Take extra caution when speaking with adjusters because anything you say could affect your injury claim. Be aware that you may be waiving your right to further recovery once you accept a check. Consider hiring an Evanston tow truck accident lawyer as soon as possible, so that you can receive guidance early on when it comes to issues related to settlement offers. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm if you want someone to represent your best interests in the presence of insurance companies.
Evanston Tow Truck Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Consult with a Tow Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we know how a tow truck accident can suddenly upend your life. It may take a long time before you can get back on your feet, and you could find yourself facing considerable medical bills and other expenses. Our lawyers can lend you their legal support during this challenging time, and help you secure possible compensation like hospital costs, rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of potential future earnings.
Contact our team at (800) 794-0444, so we can review your case and quickly get started on the next steps. We are here to listen to your concerns 24/7, and we expect no fees unless there is a settlement or verdict.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form