Despite the numerous safety laws that regulate the commercial trucking industry, truck accidents do happen daily nationwide. These accidents can be catastrophic for the occupants of much smaller, lighter passenger vehicles and could result in life-altering physical impairments. If you or a family member has been injured in a truck accident, you may wish to consult a Normal truck accident lawyer for advice.
Several different factors could result in a truck wreck, including driver negligence and defective manufacturing. A personal injury attorney may be able to assess your situation, determine the appropriate defendant, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Common Truck Wrecks and Injuries
Tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles vastly outweigh and outsize even the largest passenger vehicles on the road. As a result, the impact of a collision with a large commercial vehicle will likely land disproportionately on occupants of passenger vehicles.
These accidents could result in permanent debilitating injuries that require significant life changes. Some of the injuries that individuals may suffer in trucking wrecks include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Multiple broken bones
- Neck, head, and spinal cord injuries
- Amputation of limbs
Negligent truck drivers and their employers could be responsible for accidents resulting in these severe injuries. A commercial vehicle accident lawyer could help a Normal plaintiff recover compensation for all of their losses.
Establishing Negligence
If any party is negligent or careless in protecting the safety of others on the roadway, they may be liable for any resulting accidents and injuries. Some common examples of negligence in truck accidents include:
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or excessive fatigue
- Trucking companies failing to properly screen, train, and supervise drivers
- Driving while using cell phones and other distracting electronic devices
- Trucking companies failing to inspect trucks for safety issues regularly
Trucking companies could also be negligent in failing to make sure that their employees comply with all applicable safety regulations, such as hours of services and weigh station check-ins. Liability may also exist when workers fail to secure cargo or overload trailers. A Normal attorney could help determine who is responsible for the truck collision.
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Statute of Limitations in Normal
Illinois law establishes a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Under 735 ILCS § 5/13 204, individuals have two years from the date of the accident to file their injury suit. Failing to meet this deadline can result in the dismissal of claims.
Some exceptions do apply to the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims. For instance, minors who suffer injuries in an accident may have an extended timeframe to file their claims. A truck collision attorney in Normal could help injury victims identify the applicable deadlines and file their claim on time.
Call a Normal Truck Accident Attorney for Guidance
Filing a personal injury claim could allow you to obtain much-needed compensation for the injuries you sustained in a commercial vehicle accident. This claim could also permit you to hold negligent parties accountable for their wrongful behavior. Call a Normal truck accident lawyer today to discuss your claim.