Edwardsville Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck Companies' Duty of Care in Edwardsville, IL

Truck companies operating in Edwardsville, IL, share the same duty of care as truck drivers on the roads, given the potential for semi-truck breakdowns due to constant use.

The Department of Transportation performs regular inspections on semi-trucks, but there are too many on the road to ensure the safety of every truck.

Therefore, routine maintenance and repairs are mandated to ensure the safety of all road users.

Importance of Regulating Truck Drivers’ Hours

Apart from regular truck maintenance, truck companies must also ensure that their drivers are not overworked.

Drowsy driving is a significant risk, with some studies indicating that it may impair a driver more than drunk driving.

To mitigate this risk, strict regulations on hours of service detail how long truck drivers can drive in a day and when they need breaks.

Key hours of service regulations include:

• 1-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours of non-driving
• 14-hour driving limit following a 10-hour break, even if not on duty the entire time
• A 30-minute break after driving more than eight consecutive hours
• 60/70-hour limit in a 7/8-day period with a restart option after a 34-hour off-duty period

Following these regulations is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of truck drivers and everyone on the road.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Edwardsville, IL

Truck accidents in Edwardsville, IL, can occur due to various factors, ranging from driver negligence to improper vehicle maintenance.

Understanding these common causes is crucial for both preventing accidents and determining liability when they do occur.

Some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents in Edwardsville include:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Truck drivers who engage in distracting activities, such as texting or eating while driving, are more likely to cause accidents.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and aggressive maneuvers can make it difficult for truck drivers to control their vehicles, especially in adverse weather conditions.
• Improper Loading and Cargo Securement: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transport, making the truck unstable and increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Improper Truck Maintenance and Equipment Failure

Proper maintenance and regular inspections are essential for ensuring the safety of commercial trucks on Edwardsville roads.

When trucking companies or drivers neglect these responsibilities, the risk of accidents due to equipment failure increases significantly.

Common maintenance issues and equipment failures that can lead to truck accidents include:

• Brake Failure: Inadequate maintenance or defective brake components can result in longer stopping distances or complete brake failure, making it difficult for truck drivers to avoid collisions.
• Tire Blowouts: Worn or improperly inflated tires are more susceptible to blowouts, which can cause truck drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
• Steering and Suspension Problems: Faulty steering or suspension components can make it challenging for truck drivers to maintain control, particularly when navigating turns or uneven road surfaces.
• Trailer Attachment Failures: If the connection between the truck and trailer is not properly secured or maintained, the trailer can detach while in motion, posing a serious risk to other vehicles on the road.

Edwardsville Driver Error and Negligence

Human error and truck driver negligence are among the most common causes of truck accidents in Edwardsville, IL.

When drivers fail to adhere to traffic laws, industry regulations, or basic safety practices, they put themselves and others at risk.

Examples of driver error and negligence that can lead to truck accidents include:

• Impaired Driving: Operating a commercial truck while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications can severely impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to control the vehicle.
• Inadequate Training: Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure their drivers are properly trained in safe driving techniques, defensive driving, and emergency maneuvers. Failure to provide adequate training can result in inexperienced drivers causing accidents.
• Failure to Yield: Truck drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way when merging, changing lanes, or entering intersections can cause collisions with other vehicles.
• Tailgating: Following too closely behind other vehicles reduces the time and space available for truck drivers to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident caused by driver error, negligence, or improper maintenance, an experienced Edwardsville truck accident lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free case evaluation and learn more about your legal options.

Proving Liability in Edwardsville Truck Accident Cases

Establishing liability in a truck accident case is crucial for securing compensation for injuries and damages.

However, determining fault can be confusing, as multiple parties may be involved, including the truck driver, trucking company, and manufacturers of the vehicle or its components.

To prove liability in an Edwardsville truck accident case, your attorney will typically focus on demonstrating the following:

1. Negligence: Evidence that the truck driver, trucking company, or other parties failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in the accident.
2. Causation: Proof that the negligent actions directly caused the accident and your injuries.
3. Damages: Documentation of the physical, emotional, and financial harm you suffered as a result of the accident.

The Role of an Edwardsville Truck Accident Attorney

An experienced Edwardsville truck accident attorney plays a vital role in investigating your case, gathering evidence, and building a strong argument to support your claim for compensation.

Some of the key responsibilities of a truck accident lawyer include:

• Conducting a Thorough Investigation: Your attorney will review police reports, interview witnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
• Preserving Evidence: Truck accident lawyers work quickly to secure critical evidence, such as driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data, before it can be lost or destroyed.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Your attorney will handle communication with insurance adjusters and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.
• Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your Edwardsville truck accident lawyer will be prepared to advocate for your rights in court and present a compelling case to the judge and jury.

Compensation Available for Edwardsville Truck Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Edwardsville, IL, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.

The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of your case and the severity of your injuries.

Common types of compensation sought in Edwardsville truck accident cases include:

• Medical Expenses: You may be reimbursed for current and future medical treatment related to your accident injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to missed work while recovering from your injuries, as well as future lost earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you experienced as a result of the accident and your injuries.
• Property Damage: You may be reimbursed for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Factors Affecting the Value of Your Truck Accident Claim

The potential value of your truck accident claim in Edwardsville, IL, can vary based on several factors.

These factors can be influenced by the severity of injuries, liability, insurance coverage, and even your own actions.

The value of your Edwardsville truck accident claim can potentially depend on several factors outside of your control, including:

• Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries typically result in higher medical expenses, longer recovery times, and greater pain and suffering, which can increase the value of your claim.
• Liability: The clearer the evidence of the other party’s liability, the stronger your case for compensation will be.
• Insurance Coverage: The amount of insurance coverage available from the at-fault party’s policy can impact the potential settlement or award you receive.
• Your Own Actions: Your own negligence, if any, in contributing to the accident can reduce the compensation you’re eligible to recover under Illinois’ comparative fault laws.

Statute of Limitations for Edwardsville Truck Accident Lawsuits

It’s essential to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit in Edwardsville, IL.

The statute of limitations sets a deadline for initiating legal action, and if you fail to file your case within the specified time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including truck accidents, is two years from the date of the accident.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as:

• Claims Against Government Entities: If your accident involved a government-owned vehicle or was caused by the negligence of a government employee, you may have a shorter time frame to file a formal claim before initiating a lawsuit.
• Discovery Rule: In some cases, the statute of limitations may be extended if your injuries were not immediately apparent or discoverable after the accident. Under the discovery rule, the two-year clock begins when you knew or reasonably should have known of your injury.

The Importance of Acting Quickly After a Truck Accident

Given the strict time limits for filing a truck accident lawsuit in Edwardsville, IL, it’s crucial to act quickly after an accident to protect your legal rights.

By contacting an experienced truck accident attorney at TorHoerman Law, you can ensure that your case is properly investigated and that all necessary evidence is preserved.

Some key steps to take after a truck accident include:

• Seeking Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Seek medical care for your injuries and follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
• Reporting the Accident: Notify law enforcement and your insurance company about the accident, but be cautious about making statements that could be used against you later.
• Gathering Evidence: If possible, collect photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries, as well as contact information for any witnesses.
• Contacting an Attorney: Reach out to an experienced Edwardsville truck accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait to take action after a truck accident in Edwardsville, IL.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free case evaluation and learn how our skilled attorneys can help you fight for your rights.

Choosing the Right Edwardsville Truck Accident Attorney

Selecting the right truck accident attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make after being involved in a crash.

The attorney you choose can significantly impact the outcome of your case and the compensation you ultimately recover.

When evaluating potential Edwardsville truck accident attorneys, consider the following factors:

• Experience: Look for an attorney with extensive experience handling truck accident cases specifically, as these claims often involve unique legal and technical challenges.
• Track Record: Research the attorney’s past success in securing favorable settlements and verdicts for their clients in truck accident cases.
• Resources: Ensure the attorney can access the necessary resources, such as accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals, to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Communication: Choose an attorney who is responsive to your questions and concerns and keeps you informed about the progress of your case.

Red Flags to Watch Out for When Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer

While there are many qualified truck accident attorneys in Edwardsville, IL, there are also some red flags to watch out for when making your selection:

• Lack of Specific Experience: Be wary of attorneys who claim to handle all types of personal injury cases but lack demonstrated experience with truck accident claims.
• Overpromising: If an attorney guarantees a specific outcome or settlement amount, it may be a sign that they are more interested in securing your business than providing realistic expectations.
• Poor Communication: If an attorney is difficult to reach or fails to respond to your inquiries in a timely manner, it may indicate that they are too busy to give your case the attention it deserves.
• Pressure to Settle Quickly: Be cautious of attorneys who pressure you to accept a settlement offer without fully explaining your options or the potential long-term consequences of your injuries.

By taking the time to research and select an experienced, reputable Edwardsville truck accident attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best possible chance of securing the compensation you need to move forward after a serious crash.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Edwardsville, IL, contact TruLawsuit Info today for a free case evaluation. Learn how our dedicated attorneys can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Protecting Your Health and Legal Rights After a Truck Accident in Edwardsville

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, making it crucial to take the necessary steps to protect your health and legal rights after an incident.

By prioritizing your well-being, gathering evidence, and working with an experienced Edwardsville truck accident lawyer, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Prioritizing Your Well-Being After a Truck Accident

Your top priority after a truck accident should be your health and safety.

Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to:

• Seek medical treatment immediately
• Follow your doctor’s advice and treatment plan
• Attend all follow-up appointments to document your recovery process

Prompt medical attention not only ensures your well-being but also creates a record of your injuries and treatment, which can be vital for your legal case.

Gathering Evidence and Documenting the Truck Accident

To build a strong truck accident case, you’ll need to collect as much evidence as possible about the incident.

This evidence may include:

• Photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage
• Contact information from witnesses and other parties involved
• Copies of police reports and medical records related to the accident

Keeping detailed records of all expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, is also crucial for demonstrating the extent of your losses.

Protecting Your Legal Rights with an Edwardsville Truck Accident Attorney

While your truck accident case is ongoing, it’s essential to take steps to protect your legal rights.

These steps include:

1. Avoiding discussing your accident or injuries with anyone except your lawyer
2. Refraining from posting about the incident on social media
3. Directing any insurance company inquiries to your attorney

By following these guidelines and working closely with your Edwardsville truck accident lawyer at TorHoerman Law, you can focus on your recovery while ensuring that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.

TorHoerman Law: Dedicated to Serving Truck Accident Victims in Edwardsville, IL

TorHoerman Law is a trusted personal injury law firm and proud member of the Madison County Bar Association with decades of combined experience pursuing truck accident claims in Edwardsville, IL, and throughout Southern Illinois.

Our award-winning attorneys have been recognized as one of the Top 100 Lawyers in Illinois and bring a wealth of experience to every case.

Client Success and Community Service: Serving and Supporting Illinois Residents

When searching for a truck accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL, consider TorHoerman Law.

Our Main Street Edwardsville law office is staffed by attorneys and professionals who live in the community.

We take pride in serving the Edwardsville and Southern Illinois communities by giving back to residents through events and donation drives.

TorHoerman Law also serves clients in the surrounding areas, including Glen Carbon, Collinsville, Granite City, Alton, East Alton, Wood River, and throughout Southern Illinois.

Contact us today using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve after a truck accident.