Three Legal Considerations After a Fatal Truck Accident in Lake County

 Posted on December 08,2021 in Wrongful Death

Semi-trucks and other commercial trucks are massive vehicles capable of causing horrific destruction in an accident. In 2019, over 5,000 large commercial trucks were involved in fatal collisions. Sadly, many truck accidents are preventable. If your loved one was killed in a truck accident due to the negligent actions of the truck driver or another party, you may have the right to pursue legal action against the at-fault party. A wrongful death claim may enable you to seek justice for your loved one’s death and recover financial compensation for damages.

Liability for the Crash May Be Complicated

If your loved one passed away in a crash involving a large truck, you may understandably be looking for someone to blame. The at-fault party for a large truck crash is sometimes the driver. Intoxicated driving, distracted driving, speeding, and sleep deprivation are just some of the potential causes of the crash. However, the trucking company may ultimately be liable even if the driver’s actions caused the accident. If the crash was caused by faulty tires, brakes, or another defective truck part, the company that designed, sold, or manufactured the defective components may be to blame. Determining liability for a truck crash is often one of the most complicated aspects of a truck accident case.

You Will Need a Solid Case Backed by Strong Evidence

To bring a successful truck accident injury or death claim, you must have evidence to support the claim. Trucking companies and insurance companies often try to shift the blame for an accident onto the victim. To build your case, you will need evidence such as event data recorder (EDR) information, photos and videos, witness statements, police reports, medical records, and more. Your lawyer can help you obtain and preserve evidence.

You May Be Entitled to Damages

Money cannot make up for your loved one’s untimely death. However, monetary damages from a wrongful death claim can help you address the financial losses stemming from the tragedy. Through a wrongful death claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your loved one’s medical bills and funeral and burial costs. You may also be able to recover compensation for his or her lost wages and lost employment benefits. Non-economic damages for your own grief and suffering may also be recoverable.

Contact a Waukegan Wrongful Death Lawyer

If your loved one died in a truck crash, contact Salvi & Maher, LLP to discuss your legal options. Call our knowledgeable and compassionate Lake County truck accident attorneys at 847-662-3303. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today.

Source:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/large-truck-and-bus-crash-facts-2019