The substantial difference in size between a truck and a passenger vehicle puts those in the car at serious risk of harm in a crash. If you or a loved one have been in a collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
The skilled personal injury attorneys at MJB Law Offices could provide you with legal guidance and rigorous representation in the pursuit of compensation. Call our law office today to meet with an Orland Park truck accident lawyer.
Common Causes of Truck Wrecks
Big rigs require much more skill and awareness to operate safely due to their massive size and number of blind spots. Several actions by a trucker could lead to a collision, including the following:
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Fatigued driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Not adhering to traffic signals or signs
- Distracted driving (e.g. texting, eating, talking on a radio, taking a phone call)
Federal regulations are designed to prevent unsafe truck driving practices. For instance, truck drivers are not allowed to use their cell phones while operating the vehicle because that can distract them from the road. Similarly, drivers are only allowed to work a maximum of 14 hours a day to reduce fatigue.
In addition, hauling cargo and driving for hours on end causes wear and tear on the vehicle’s tires and mechanics. Trucking companies are required to maintain their fleet to ensure they are in proper working condition and repair anything that could compromise the truck’s performance on the road.
Anyone involved in a collision should consult with a knowledgeable Orland Park truck crash attorney. They could review the case and help determine if the driver or the trucking company was responsible.
Common Injuries from Truck Crashes
Several injuries can result from a truck collision, ranging from broken bones to whiplash to fatality.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are a common result of truck collisions. When a driver or passenger’s head collides with another object upon impact, this causes the brain to hit the inside of the skull, causing a concussion. Brain and head trauma can result in long-term effects, such as headaches, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can also occur if the massive weight of a truck causes the spine to compress. This can damage the vertebrae bones and soft discs in between. Spinal injuries could result in total or partial paralysis and permanent alterations to a person’s lifestyle.
Mental and Emotional Trauma
Being hit by a massive truck is a terrifying experience, and surviving one could result in nightmares, a fear of getting behind the wheel again, anxiety, and depression.
Injured parties could be entitled to compensation for their damages. Anyone involved in a truck accident should discuss their options with an Orland Park lawyer.
Speak to an Orland Park Truck Accident Attorney Today
When you or your loved one has been hurt in a truck crash, you may be dealing with expensive medical bills and emotional trauma. An Orland Park truck accident lawyer could help you file a claim against the at-fault party.
With years of experience in the legal field, our dedicated and reliable attorneys could be by your side throughout the process, providing advice and representation. Reach out to MJB Law Offices today to discuss your case.
