Causes of Truck Accidents
Pursue Compensation with Our Chicago Truck Accident Lawyers
It’s not unusual for drivers of passenger cars to feel uncomfortable when sharing the road with commercial trucks and other large vehicles. After all, when passenger vehicles and commercial trucks collide, it typically leads to catastrophic physical injuries and tragic fatalities. In fact, the driver of a passenger vehicle is killed in over 90% of all truck-related collisions. While this is largely due to the size and disproportionate weight difference of commercial motor vehicles, the actual cause of the collision is likely human error.
If you have been injured in an accident involving a commercial motor vehicle, contact McNabola & Associates, LLC. With over 20 years of legal experience, our Chicago truck accident attorneys have the skill and tenacity to methodically investigate your case, effectively prosecute your claim, and negotiate with all insurance companies on your behalf.
Call McNabola & Associates, LLC at (312) 888-8700 if you’re ready to file your claim and pursue maximum damages.
Negligent Behaviors that Lead to Truck Accidents
The trucking industry is governed by stringent state and federal laws that function to protect all drivers. Truck drivers and trucking companies are expected to follow these laws and may face severe penalties if an act of negligence leads to someone’s death or physical harm.
Liable parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The leasing company
- The vehicle or parts manufacturer
- The truck’s maintenance provider/mechanic
Driver Negligence
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of traffic collisions in the United States. Because truck drivers spend long and often excessive hours on the road, they are susceptible to distractions. However, since trucks grant drivers limited spatial awareness by design, any distractions can easily lead to unfortunate and devastating accidents.
Distracted driving behaviors include:
- Using a cell phone
- Typing an address into a GPS device
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Fiddling with a radio
- Daydreaming
Speeding & Aggressive Driving
Federal law mandates the number of hours that commercial drivers can be on the road; in fact, truckers are required to keep log books that document their total driving hours. However, truckers are often pressured to falsify their log books in order to meet difficult company deadlines, particularly when facing delays caused by poor weather or road conditions. As a result, drivers may be tempted to engage in risky behaviors like speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving just to meet their deadlines.
Driver Fatigue
Because drivers are under such strict deadlines, they often skip breaks and drive through the night. As a result, these sleep-deprived drivers may experience fatigue and have difficulty focusing on the road. When a truck driver’s awareness and concentration is compromised, it can often lead to an unfortunate accident.
Drug & Alcohol Abuse
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a dangerous practice for anyone operating a motor vehicle. However, when a trucker is responsible for skillfully navigating an 80,000-pound truck, consuming alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs may severely impact their concentration and overall driving ability placing other motorists at risk. Unfortunately, some truckers resort to taking various drugs to stay awake while driving, placing themselves and other drivers in danger.
You don’t have to stand against a trucking company or their insurance provider alone. Contact our Chicago truck accident attorneys at (312) 888-8700 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Real People, Real Stories
-
Ted McNabola is an amazing attorney! He handled my mom’s case after she was hit by a car as a pedestrian. The difference between Ted and other attorneys is that he never gave up! It was a long process of 3 years but when other attorney’s would have given up just to make some money on the case, Ted refused to do so!! In the end he got my mother EVERYTHING she was asking for! Thank you Ted for never giving up!!!!- Kat J.
-
I had the pleasure of working with Ted McNabola after a serious car accident that left me with a brain injury. From the first time we met, I knew I was in good hands. Ted was kind, patient, and understanding, and he went above and beyond to help me get the compensation I deserved for my medical bills, pain and suffering. Throughout the legal process, Ted was always available to answer my questions and provide guidance. He kept me informed every step of the way and fought tirelessly to ensure that my rights were protected. Thanks to his hard work and dedication, I was able to focus on my recovery and move on from the accident. If you're looking for a lawyer who truly cares about his clients and will fight for their rights, then I highly recommend Ted McNabola’s Team. He is a skilled professional and a kind and compassionate person who will go the extra mile for you. Thank you, Ted, and Tom for all that you did for me! I am forever thankful!- Sammy M
-
“Edward W. McNabola, Esq was able to get me the most compensation allowed by the at fault driver.”- William J.
-
Working with Ted and his team has been wonderful throughout the duration of my case. I would absolutely recommend his services to anybody in need. Ted and his team are intelligent, quick-working, and determined when it comes to fighting for their clients. Very pleased to have worked with him.- Anthony S.
-
“Ted was personable and easy to work with but a bulldog when it came to fighting for us.”- Sherry G.
-
“From start to finish they did everything the right way.”- Brad S.
-
“They took good care of me.”- Cathy P
-
Ted and his team are knowledgeable, thorough and experts in their field. On top of that, Ted is personable and makes you feel like family, which is a hard quality to find. Would highly recommend.- Kelsey I.
