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Chicago Truck Accident Lawyers

We Will Help You Recover Fair Compensation

Injured in a semi crash? Before you sign anything or accept any type of settlement offer, call our truck accident lawyers at DePaolo & Zadeikis Attorneys at Law for a free consultation. We won’t charge you any attorney fees until we recover compensation on your behalf. Our law firm is conveniently located right here in Chicago, but we understand that coming in to our office isn’t an option for everyone. To make things easier during this difficult time, if you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you

When an accident involving a large truck happens, representatives from the trucking and insurance companies tend to appear almost instantly, and they will often do everything within their power to minimize, or eliminate a claim. They surround the crash site, hound the witnesses, make notes on their clipboards, and usually come up with settlement numbers that are nowhere near enough to cover the damages. 

When they make their offers, their presentations are swift and persuasive because they will try to settle with you before the reality of your losses actually sinks in. In many cases, their efforts are relentless, and victims like you leave large sums of money behind because of the temptation to settle quickly. 

Call our truck accident lawyers at DePaolo & Zadeikis at 312-263-7560 for a free case evaluation.

Our Chicago Truck Accident Lawyers Make Sure Responsible Parties Pay

Large commercial trucks can weigh up to 30 times more than a passenger car. The massive size and weight of large commercial trucks often mean that an accident leaves severe injuries, permanent disabilities, disfigurement, significant property damage, and death in their wake.

After a crash with one of these trucks, victims often face a lifetime of medical treatments, reconstructive surgeries, therapies, and more, and those services don’t come cheap. You may be left unable to return to work for a long period of time, or you may never work again. Even enjoying daily activities or caring for yourself without assistance may become impossible. For some people, the companionship of a loved one is lost for good.

You should not be left to shoulder the burdens of a trucker or trucking company’s mistakes. Although no amount of money can erase the destruction of a large truck accident, a successful claim can help you pay for medical expenses, lost income, property replacement and more. When trucking companies are forced to pay for their negligence, they are less likely to repeat their mistakes in the future.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Truck Accident?

The truck driver, trucking company, truck manufacturer, cargo loaders, and even governmental entities responsible for road maintenance may be held accountable for victims’ injuries depending on the circumstances of the accident.

Factors such as driver negligence, vehicle defects, or improper loading can attribute liability. Legal proceedings may involve complex investigations to establish fault and ensure victims like you receive appropriate compensation for the damages you’ve incurred. A truck accident lawyer can help make sure that all liable parties are named in the lawsuit so that all eligible compensation will be included in the final amount you receive.

Types of Damages Available in a Truck Crash

Various types of damages may be available to compensate you for your losses after a truck accident. The average truck accident settlement will include economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party. Our experienced attorneys can calculate the extent of your damages and pursue appropriate compensation.

Several factors can influence the calculation of damages in an Illinois truck accident case. These include the severity of injuries, extent of property damage, medical expenses, lost income, future medical needs, duration of recovery, comparative negligence, insurance coverage limits, and the skill of legal representation in negotiating or litigating the case.

With decades of experience in fighting for fair and appropriate compensation for crash victims, our truck accident lawyers at DePaolo & Zadeikis have the knowledge, resources and experience to ensure that responsible parties pay for the damages they cause. 

What You Need to Know About Commercial Truck Crashes

As the victim of an 18-wheeler crash, you have a lot on your mind. There are a lot of questions to ask when hiring a truck accident lawyer, after all. Our attorneys are happy to answer any questions you may have during your free, no-obligation consultation. In the meantime, here’s a general overview of what you need to know about commercial truck crashes.

Tractor trailers and other large commercial vehicles are involved in approximately 1 out of every 8 motor vehicle fatalities. Every year, large truck accidents kill about 5,000 people in the United States and severely injure approximately 115,000 more. 

Fully loaded trucks that are full of fuel can weigh in excess of 80,000 pounds, and smaller cars, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians are no match when a collision occurs. About 86% of deaths and 77% of injuries that happen in commercial truck accidents are to the drivers and passengers of the smaller vehicles. With fatigued, impaired and distracted truckers who are rushed to meet deadlines, and the large number of commercial trucks on the road, it’s no surprise that a large truck accident occurs about every 16 minutes. 

When these accidents happen, a number of variables can cause truckers, trucking companies, shippers and loaders, and truck and parts manufacturers to be liable for damages. In many cases, more than one entity may be responsible for the crash. Our truck accident lawyers at DePaolo & Zadeikis dig deep into the details of a truck crash, uncover the evidence, and ensure that all responsible parties are held liable for the damages they cause. 

Before you accept a settlement offer, contact our Chicago truck accident lawyers at DePaolo & Zadeikis at 312-263-7560 for a free case evaluation. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Illinois?

Various factors contribute to the heightened risk of accidents and resulting injuries on Illinois roads.

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:

  • Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, talking on the phone, or eating can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road.
  • Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to drowsy driving, impacting a truck driver’s ability to react quickly to the surrounding traffic.
  • Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions increases the likelihood of accidents, especially for large trucks with longer stopping distances.
  • Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications can impair a truck driver’s judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of collisions.
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance checks and repairs can result in mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, contributing to accidents.
  • Aggressive Driving: Behaviors like tailgating, sudden lane changes, or road rage can escalate situations and lead to collisions involving trucks

What Are the Most Common Injuries From a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents can result in a range of injuries, with some more common than others. These include: 

  • Whiplash
  • Fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Internal injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Burns

Severe and life-altering injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also occur. These injuries can have long-lasting impacts on victims’ physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability, necessitating legal recourse to seek compensation for damages.

Truck Accident FAQ Section

  1. Should I Speak With the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster?
    It’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Their primary goal is to minimize the company’s liability, which could harm your claim. An attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed and protect your rights while negotiating with the insurance company.
  2. What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?
    After a truck accident, prioritize safety by checking for injuries and moving to a safe location if possible. Call emergency services and report the accident to the police. Collect information from the truck driver, including their license, insurance, and employer details. Take photos of the accident scene and any damages. Refrain from discussing fault and seek medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries.
  3. How Long Do I Have To File a Lawsuit After a Truck Accident?
    In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a truck accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. There may be exceptions depending on the circumstances, so you should always consult with a personal injury attorney promptly to ensure compliance with legal deadlines.