Litchfield Truck Accident Attorneys
Experienced representation after an Illinois commercial truck accident
Sharing the road with commercial trucks can be a risky endeavor here in Litchfield. The size and weight of a semi-truck can cause serious injuries that can take months or even years from which to heal. If you were involved in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s crucial to get a skilled truck accident attorney on your side in order to secure the compensation to which you are entitled.
The Litchfield truck accident lawyers at Glisson Law have been serving the people of Illinois for over 25 years, helping victims through the legal process and all it entails. We have years of experience with these types of cases, including securing a family $8.2 million in damages after a fatal truck accident. We are here to help – contact us today.
Why are truck accidents so dangerous?
In 2022, 167 fatal truck accidents happened here in Illinois, an increase from the 128 that happened the year before. This is almost 14 deadly accidents for every month of 2022. And, semi-truck accidents also cause more severe injuries due to their size and weight. A commercial truck is extremely large with a variety of blind spots, and the risk of accidents runs high.
Negligent truck drivers pose a significant risk to all road users. When truck drivers speed or engage in distracted driving, the potential for catastrophic accidents increases. Moreover, blown tires and improperly loaded cargo can lead to injury for other drivers who try to avoid debris on the road. Any form of negligence by a truck driver has the potential to result in a severe accident. Our Litchfield truck accident attorneys are here to assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
What are the most common types of truck accidents?
Truck accidents can take various forms, but some of the most common types include:
- Rear-end collisions. These occur when a truck collides with the vehicle in front of it. Rear-end collisions can result from factors like speeding, following too closely, or inadequate braking distances.
- Jackknife accidents. In a jackknife accident, the truck's cab and trailer fold in on each other, resembling the angle of a folding knife. This often happens when the truck's wheels lock up during braking.
- Underride accidents. Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle becomes trapped beneath the rear or side of a truck's trailer, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
- Rollover accidents. These accidents happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. Rollovers can occur due to factors like excessive speed, sharp turns, or improper cargo loading.
- Blind spot accidents. Large trucks have substantial blind spots where smaller vehicles can be hidden from the truck driver's view. Collisions can occur when a truck changes lanes or makes a turn without realizing a vehicle is in their blind spot.
- Tire blowouts. A blown tire on a truck can cause the driver to lose control, potentially leading to accidents. This is especially dangerous on highways at high speeds.
- Wide turns. Trucks require more space to make turns, and they often swing wide to the left before turning right. Inadequate signaling or failure to account for a truck's turning radius can result in collisions.
- Cargo spills. Improperly loaded or secured cargo can spill onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers and potentially causing accidents.
- Fatigue-related accidents. Fatigued truck drivers may have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of accidents. Hours-of-service regulations are in place to prevent driver fatigue.
- DUI-related accidents. Accidents involving truck drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have devastating consequences.
Each type of truck accident presents unique challenges when it comes to determining liability and seeking compensation. If you've been involved in a truck accident, it's crucial to consult with an experienced Litchfield attorney who specializes in these cases to protect your rights and pursue appropriate compensation.
Who is responsible for my Litchfield truck accident?
The person or party responsible for your commercial truck accident will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. In some cases, it may be clear who is responsible, such as if the truck driver was negligent. In other cases, it may be more difficult to determine who is responsible, such as if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure.
Here are some of the most common scenarios in which someone may be held responsible for a commercial truck accident:
- Negligence of the truck driver. If the truck driver was negligent, such as by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may be held responsible for the accident.
- Mechanical failure of the truck. If the truck was not properly maintained and the mechanical failure caused the accident, the trucking company may be held responsible.
- Defective cargo. If the cargo was improperly loaded or secured and the cargo caused the accident, the owner of the cargo may be held responsible.
- Improper road design. If the road was poorly designed and the design caused the accident, the government agency responsible for the road may be held responsible.
When you’re injured in a commercial truck accident, it is important to speak to an attorney to discuss your legal options. A Litchfield truck accident attorney can help you determine who is responsible for your accident and can help you file a claim for compensation for your injuries and losses.
What types of injuries do truck accidents cause?
Truck accidents can cause a variety of injuries, including:
- Head and brain injuries. Head injuries are the most common type of injury in truck accidents. They can range from mild concussions to severe brain injuries that can lead to death.
- Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries can be devastating and can result in paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
- Internal injuries. Internal injuries can be serious and can include organ damage, blood loss, and even death.
- Broken bones. Broken bones are common in truck accidents, and can range from simple fractures to more serious compound fractures.
- Whiplash. Whiplash is a neck injury that can cause pain, stiffness, and headaches.
- Soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue injuries include injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They can be painful and can take time to heal.
- Psychological injuries. Truck accidents can also cause psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The severity of the injuries sustained in a truck accident can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and weight of the truck, the speed of the collision, and the type of injuries.
Do you have a truck accident attorney near me?
Glisson Law is located at 111 East Fourth Street, Suite 400, in Alton, IL. We’re only a block away from City Hall, and there is plenty of parking across the street. There’s also a bus stop right outside our office. Glisson Law conducts phone and video conferences when applicable, and makes home and hospital visits if you cannot travel to us.
Experienced Litchfield, Illinois truck accident lawyers
At Glisson Law, we understand the severity of truck accidents. If you or a loved one suffered injury in a semi-truck accident, we are here to help. We are available to answer your questions and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.