Identifying Complex Issues That Arise as a Result of a Trucking Accident

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Uncategorized

Over 13 million passenger car accidents and a half a million trucking accidents were reported by the last U.S. Census in 2009. Neither is less traumatic for victims, but there are significant differences between these two types of collisions.

People who are injured in any motor vehicle accident can expect costs that include expenses for medical care and repairs for vehicle damage. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over two million people in 2012 were injured in traffic collisions involving cars, light trucks, or SUVs and over 100,000 people injured in crashes involving large trucks.

Despite this significant difference in reported numbers, accidents involving trailers or commercial trucks often lead to more serious injuries due to the size and weight of the truck and the cargo being transported. There are also added risks on the road linked to truck drivers who have exceeded their regulated drive time. They are limited in the number of hours they can drive on the road per week and are responsible for properly logging their time. The updated federal mandate states a truck driver cannot exceed 70 hours on the road per work week as a way to help with driver fatigue.

In regards to who is financially liable in a motor vehicle accident that involves one or more cars, drivers typically exchange insurance information and personal contact details to file a claim. Trucking accidents involve the responsibility of both the truck driver and the truck company for property damage and personal injuries reported. Truck drivers must maintain their log books and make routine equipment checks, which may be reviewed and included in a claim.

Commercial truck drivers are obligated under specific traffic regulations to operate a large truck in order to maintain safety for themselves and others on the road. Truck drivers must follow these federal laws in addition to regular traffic safety rules implemented for every driver operating a motor vehicle.

While our law firm handles personal injury cases due to motor vehicle accidents of all kinds, we understand the seriousness of truck accidents and the differences regarding their investigations. If you or a loved one have been injured in a trucking accident in Illinois, contact a qualified Chicago truck accident attorney today for a free case evaluation.