Drivers operating moving vans or trucks must follow the standard laws of the road and must afford all other drivers a duty of care that any other motorist should. Along with the expected duty of care, these types of commercial drivers must also carry a Commercial Driver’s License and possess specialized training to ensure that they can safely operate such large vehicles. For example, these drivers may receive training on how to address the reduced visibility caused by the size of their moving trucks.
Additionally, if an individual rents a moving van or truck and attempts to operate it themselves and causes an accident, you may have grounds for an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit if you sustained injuries in the accident.
If a moving van or truck driver violates these regulations or the duty of care all drivers must afford other motorists on the road, they or the company that employs them may hold liability for any losses or personal injuries their negligence causes. Work with a Joliet moving van truck accident lawyer today when you call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444.
Determining Liability in an Accident with a Moving Truck or Van
If you get into a wreck with a moving truck or van on the road, you may have coverage from your personal auto insurance. Liability for serious personal injuries, however, may depend on the at-fault driver and the person driving the moving truck.
Illinois Classifies as an At-Fault Insurance State
Depending on which driver bears fault for the accident, the respective insurance company may cover the cost of some of the damages. When driving a moving van or truck, you may have coverage under your consumer insurance, if you paid for the rental with a credit card that has an additional insurance policy, for example. If you do not have such coverage, your personal car insurance policy may or may not cover any damages, depending on your policy.
Regardless of fault, Illinois’s (215 ILCS 5/) Illinois Insurance Code requires coverage of no less than $25,000 for bodily injury to or death for one person, and “$50,000 for bodily injury to or death” for two or more people. Property damage is covered by the Illinois auto insurance requirements as well, with a $20,000 minimum coverage for any property damage resulting from the accident. Checking with your insurance policy before you rent a car can help to prevent a lack of coverage.
Seeking Medical Attention After a Moving Van or Truck Accident
When you get into a wreck with a moving van or truck, protect your rights and make sure you receive medical attention. Afterward, you may consider calling an attorney to advise you on your next steps.
Obtaining medical attention, even if you believe your injuries remain minor, may help you document your losses if you need to make a claim later. You can also contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to discuss your personal injury case.
Legal Options in Moving Van or Truck Accident Claims
If you want to file against a negligent driver for the financial and physical damages from the accident, you should consider working with a Joliet moving van truck accident lawyer. If you had a crash with a moving van or truck, the rental company may bear liability. In any case, avoid assuming fault and let the adjusters and your personal injury lawyer handle the negotiations of your case.
You may consider making the following claims after a moving van or truck accident:
- Personal Injury: Personal injury cases after a car accident require you to act quickly because not all physical injuries appear until long after the accident happens. The statute of limitations for car accidents in Illinois allows only two years, with even less time if you file against a public entity. Personal injury costs range from emergency doctor’s appointments to prescription medications and continued therapeutic doctors.
- Property Damage: Property damage from an accident includes any damage to your car resulting from the accident, such as damage to the internal mechanisms of cars or the body of the car. A moving van or truck accident attorney may help you navigate the estimation and claims process.
While the above claims often occur after a truck or moving van accident, other claims may apply in your particular case. Call a personal injury attorney as soon as you think you have a case so you can get started on potentially claiming compensation that may help you recover some of your losses.
For a free legal consultation with a Moving Van Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Joliet, call (800) 794-0444
Contact a Moving Van Truck Accident Attorney Today for Help
Although accidents with moving trucks and vans happen, you should not have to shoulder the losses alone without holding the responsible party accountable. Hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions and see what the legal team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm may do for your case.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so we do not accept payment until we secure you the financial compensation you deserve for your personal injuries and losses. Call our offices for a free consultation at (800) 794-0444.
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