Truck Accidents and Semi Accidents

Every year there are thousands of accidents in Illinois that involve tractor trailers. These crashes account for 3.5% of all motor vehicle accidents, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. Between 2015 and 2016 the incidence of fatal accidents increased by a whopping 30% resulting in 106 fatalities and 1,859 injuries. In total, there were 11,301 accidents involving big trucks in 2016.

The victims of these accidents often suffer serious injuries, financial stress, and emotional trauma. Fortunately, you do not have to bear this burden alone. You have rights that entitle you to seek compensation for the injuries and losses that you have suffered and an experienced truck accident attorney can help.

Semi Truck Accidents are Serious

Truck accidents are often the result of drivers that are impaired, fatigued, or distracted. These accidents may also be due to blind spots, mechanical defects, improperly loaded cargo, and drivers that have been improperly hired or trained.

Although injuries and damages are possible in all types of accidents, semi-truck accidents different from other accidents for the following reasons: 

• Larger trucks may cause more damage to smaller vehicles. Commercial trucks are usually much heavier and larger than other vehicles, which means they can be much more destructive. Although passenger cars have safety features, they are not typically equipped to handle the impact of a vehicle as large as a semi.
• Occupants of passenger vehicles often suffer more serious injuries. The occupants of a smaller vehicle are more likely to be injured or die than the driver of a semi-truck when an accident occurs. The victims that survive often suffer long and painful recoveries.
• Professional drivers are involved. Semi-trucks or other commercial vehicles are typically operated by professional drivers. This means they are part of a larger system including trucking, logistics, and insurance companies. Typically, this means that there are more components and regulations involved in these accidents.

Compensation Available in a Truck Accident

The victims of a truck accident will likely face many challenges, and compensation is available to help them recover. These damages may include, but are not limited to, medical expenses including future medical expenses, present and future loss of wages, loss of your enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering. Additional damages may be available if the victim died as a result of their injuries. This can be done by the family filing a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the victim.

Our Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys Will Fight for You

If you or your loved one has suffered injuries in a semi-truck accident, we can help. Not only can your health be on the line after such an accident, but your finances can be, too. Although we can not restore you physically, we can ensure that you do not suffer financially and are compensated for the emotional and physical pain you are suffering. The attorneys at Rittenberg, Saks & Robinson, Ltd. will investigate the accident and advise you of your legal rights. Contact us today and let us handle the work so you can focus on your recovery.