Does negligence affect damage compensation in a Chicago big rig accident?

Illinois – December 26, 2021

Illinois crashes.

Data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, revealed 319,146 crashes involving motor vehicles in 2018. Injury crashes accounted for 21.1% of these crashes (67,453), while fatal crashes (951) accounted for less than 1% of these crashes. Crashes involving tractor-trailers accounted for 3.8% of overall crashes, 11.1% of fatal crashes and 3.1% of injury crashes. Much of the time the accident is not the fault of the truck driver, although they may be found negligent for certain types of violations. Additionally, Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data includes the national census of motor vehicle crashes that result in a fatality to a motor vehicle occupant, or a non-motorist. This data tracks crashes involving heavy vehicles, but does not provide model years which makes it more difficult to determine if trends in upgraded tractor trailers show a reduction in fatalities caused in accidents. Talk to a Chicago truck accident lawyer to determine if you have a case for damages resulting from a tractor trailer mishap in Illinois.

Big rig trucker violations.

Federal and state laws are in place to protect passengers from illegal truck activities that would make roadways more dangerous. Other activities include common violations such as:

Improper Maintenance – brake problems high on the list,
Driver Fatigue – prescription drug use, over the counter drug use may be factor,
Distracted Driving – increased use of technology may be a factor,
Reckless Driving – traveling too fast for conditions, or causing traffic flow interruption,
Overweight Cargo – problems with wheels and tires often occur, as well as rollover, and jackknife situations,
Commercial Company Negligence – driver pressure to meet delivery deadlines may cause violations of federal laws for driver hours,
Unsecured Loads – flying debris,
Driving in Extreme Weather – unfamiliar with roadway, or roadway construction may exacerbate driver dangers,
DUI Violations.

At fault negligence state.

Illinois is a “fault,” state with regard to auto accidents, and requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of property damage and liability insurance. Accident victims have the right to pursue a personal injury, or property damage claim against an at-fault driver. This is referred to as filing a “third-party” claim. The State of Illinois follows the modified comparative negligence rule, where an individual recovers damages if they are 50% or less at fault for an accident. However, if they were more than 50% at fault, damages will not be recoverable from the other driver. A truck accident lawyer has experience with the industry and will communicate with insurance companies regarding the assignment of fault in your case.

Time constraints to file a claim.

There is a two year time period to file a suit after a truck accident in Illinois, referred to as the statute of limitations, although there are some exceptions to this timeline. An Illinois truck accident attorney can build a case for damages within the statute of limitations after a truck accident impacts a victim’s life, causing them catastrophic, or chronic bodily harm, and/or fiscal devastation related to the accident.

Hire a lawyer.

If you have suffered bodily injury, property damage, or lost a loved one in a tractor trailer accident near Chicago, Illinois, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. USAttorneys.com is a valuable starting place to find the best lawyers in your area who can guide you regarding your insurance filing requirements, and other legal options toward damage compensation through personal injury, or wrongful death actions.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K2-604.1

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2059

http://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/073500050K13-212.htm

https://insurance.illinois.gov/

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K13-202

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K2-1116