Collisions involving tractor-trailers are on the rise, claiming the lives of 106 people in 2018, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Crash Facts & Statistics. It is no wonder that these crashes are especially deadly, considering that passenger vehicles are no match against the size of a tractor-trailer. In the aftermath of these types of collisions, not only can your car be totaled, but your injuries can affect your ability to support your family. The impact of these accidents is often accompanied by emotional trauma as well. This dual shock can leave you reeling and unaware of the steps you should take moving forward.
Review your claim with a Palatine tractor-trailer truck accident lawyer who can help you explore your options for financial recovery. Pintas & Mullins Law Firm has over 50 years of combined experience in tackling personal injury cases and is eager to help you navigate the legal process. To speak with a member of our team, call (800) 794-0444 today.
Tractor-Trailer Accidents Can Be Deadly
With over 80,000 pounds of steel, tractor-trailers are massive trucks that usually transport commercial goods. Tractor-trailers were involved in more than 13,000 accidents in 2018 alone, according to IDOT.
There is no limit to the severity of injuries when a passenger vehicle collides with these trucks.
Some injuries that can be caused by a collision with a tractor-trailer can include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Torn ligaments
- Whiplash
- Organ bruising
- Disfigurement
- Death
It is important to seek immediate medical attention after your accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Nerve damage and brain injuries may not appear within the first few hours of your accident and can worsen over time if left untreated. Additionally, be sure to hold on to all communications that take place between you and your attending medical professional, as this can establish your involvement in the accident. Starting a paper trail as soon as you wish to seek legal action can be extremely useful in proving liability.
Speaking to a Palatine tractor-trailer accident lawyer from our team can provide you with more information on what you can do to support your claim. To learn more, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444.
File A Crash Report with the Police as Soon as Possible
A police report is an important document that may include details, photos, and diagrams of the accident. It may also contain statements from witnesses and other valuable information that strengthens your claim for monetary compensation.
According to the Illinois General Assembly, a police report is required if either of the following conditions occur:
- Any injury or death resulted from the accident
- There was damage over $1,500
If an accident meets either of the above criteria, the drivers must file a crash report within 10 days of the accident. Failing to file a necessary report can result in a loss of driving privileges for both motorists.
A police report is an important document that provides your lawyer with additional information about your accident, including details of the truck’s make and model, the driver’s employer, and the name of the driver.
For your own records, you should document the following information:
- Name and driver’s license number of each vehicle’s driver
- Insurance carrier, policy number, and effective dates for each motorist
- Description of the damage to each vehicle
Again, these details can be useful in proving your account of events during the legal process. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we understand that emotional trauma or severe injuries may hinder your ability to record or give certain information. When you work with our team, we can request a copy of the police report on your behalf and determine how it strengthens your claim. We can handle all the communications with law enforcement while you recover from your injuries.
For a free legal consultation with a Tractor Trailer Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Palatine, call (800) 794-0444
The Four Elements of Negligence
Our goal is to prove that another party caused your accident, and as a result, you suffered injuries and financial losses. We can do this by drawing attention to four factors that establish liability toward the responsible party.
These elements include:
- Duty of care. All motorists must take reasonable precautions to ensure that their actions do not cause harm to others. This includes adhering to posted traffic signals and practicing defensive driving.
- Breach of duty. When a motorist performs an action that causes harm to another driver, they have violated their duty of care. Driving under the influence, distracted driving, or speeding are all examples of harmful practices that can lead to an accident.
- Causation. You must prove that as a result of the liable party breaching their duty of care, their behaviors resulted in your collision.
- Damages. These include examples of the type of losses you suffered as a result of your accident. Medical receipts listing your injuries and the treatment you received are good examples of showing that your accident caused substantial damages.
What can make an accident with a tractor-trailer unique is how multiple parties can be held responsible for contributing to a collision. While most people may assume that only the driver of the truck can be held liable, in fact, their employer, the manufacturer of the vehicle, and even the workers who loaded the truck’s cargo may be held responsible. This opens new avenues for seeking compensation. However, this can complicate your case. Working with an experienced legal team can guide you through the recovery process and help shoulder the burden of your claim.
Palatine Tractor Trailer Truck Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
A Lawyer Near You Can Help You Recover from Your Financial Losses
A collision involving a tractor-trailer is a serious accident that can lead to severe physical injuries and outrageous costs. In the blink of an eye, you or a loved one’s life can completely change.
Our team of tractor-trailer accident lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can help you build a case for your Palatine tractor-trailer accident. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Illinois is typically two years from the date of the collision. Time is of the essence when seeking legal help. Call us today at (800) 794-0444.
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