In some ways, legal claims involving large trucks work much like negligence cases involving other motor vehicles.
Under Illinois law, if a truck driver negligently causes an accident that injures or kills another motorist or a pedestrian, then the victims are entitled to receive compensation for their losses. Basically, this is the same rule that applies no matter who is involved in an accident.
Still, there are many practical reasons why a truck accident may require some skilled legal handling, even more so than an accident involving two private passenger cars:
- There are certain laws that may only apply to truck accidents. For example, truckers usually must follow many regulations which only apply to commercial vehicles. As just one example, long-haul truckers on the roads and highways around Quincy must follow Hours of Service rules that require drivers to take periodic breaks to avoid fatigue.
- On a related point, there are often several parties that victims of an Illinois accident may be able to sue. For example, when a negligent truck driver was driving for their employer, the employer will likely also be responsible to pay compensation. Even if driver was operating as an independent contractor, the business that contracted with the driver as well as others may also be legally responsible for the accident.
- The stakes are much higher in truck accidents. Given the difference in size between a truck and a car, a victim’s injuries are often expensive and costly. Moreover, commercial vehicles often must carry much higher insurance limits than would a private party. Finally, trucking companies as well as their insurers often have both assets and a reputation that they will want to protect.
- Trucks operate differently than do cars, which means an accident investigation must be conducted differently. Often, investigating a truck accident will take some additional work and attention to detail.
Those who have been involved in a truck accident need to know all their options
Practically, truck accidents are more complicated than other types of motor vehicle accidents. Moreover, a victim recovering from a truck accident may be facing years if not a lifetime of additional costs and expenses.
If they do not understand all their legal options, it can be easy for a victim unwittingly to agree to a low settlement that will not provide for their family or them.