Rolling Meadows, Illinois Truck Accident Attorneys

Attorney Gary Newland has been incredible to work with. Ultra responsive, caring, and a master of his craft! He puts the time and effort into making the most of your case and is compassionate throughout the whole experience. You can tell he dedicates the time and attention to detail. So grateful to have worked with Gary and the firm as a whole!

Accidents involving commercial trucks can be devastating. Due to the massive size of commercial trucks, their heavy cargo, and the potential harm that may be caused by hazardous materials, truck accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries. Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties who may share responsibility, and complex regulations may need to be addressed. Trucking companies and insurance companies may attempt to minimize liability. To ensure that all these issues can be addressed correctly, a victim can work with an experienced Rolling Meadows truck accident attorney.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, our skilled lawyers have the experience needed to handle the complex legal and technical issues that may play a role in truck accident cases. We will thoroughly investigate the cause of a crash and identify every potentially liable party, including the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance providers, and cargo loaders. Our goal is to hold the negligent parties accountable and secure justice for a person who has been injured.

The Risks of Truck Driver Fatigue

Drowsy or fatigued driving is one of the most serious hazards in the trucking industry. Fatigue can affect a driver's ability to safely operate a large vehicle. It may reduce a driver's reaction times, impair their judgment, and increase the risk of drifting into other lanes or failing to stop in time to prevent a collision. Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

There are several factors that may contribute to driver fatigue in the trucking industry, including:

• Long Hours Behind the Wheel: Federal regulations limit the number of hours that truck drivers can drive each day and within a workweek. However, some drivers may exceed these limits due to pressure from their employers or financial incentives based on miles driven. Even when drivers follow the appropriate regulations, they can become tired or drowsy during long shifts.
• Inadequate Rest: Sleeping in truck cabs, inconsistent sleep schedules, and insufficient breaks can prevent drivers from getting enough rest.
• Sleep Disorders: Undiagnosed or untreated conditions such as sleep apnea can make it difficult for drivers to remain alert, even if they sleep at the right times.
• Night Driving: Driving after dark can disrupt a person's circadian rhythms and lead to increased fatigue.
• Medications: Certain types of prescription drugs can cause drowsiness. Over-the-counter medicines to treat colds or flu may also affect a driver's ability to remain awake and alert.

When fatigued drivers get behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound vehicle, the results can be deadly. To determine whether fatigue contributed to a crash, our attorneys can analyze logbooks, electronic logging devices, GPS data, and other records.

Cargo Issues and Unsafe Loading Practices

Improper loading of cargo is another significant factor that can contribute to truck accidents. When cargo is not correctly secured, balanced, or distributed, it can shift during transit, destabilize a truck, or even fall onto the roadway.

Cargo-related hazards that can lead to truck accidents include:

• Overloaded Trucks: When weight limits are exceeded, this can affect a truck's ability to brake and turn safely, increasing the risk of rollovers and rear-end collisions.
• Unsecured Cargo: Items that are not properly tied down can shift, causing the driver to lose control or leading a truck to become unbalanced.
• Falling Debris: When cargo falls off a truck, it can strike other vehicles or create dangerous obstacles that may cause multi-vehicle accidents.
• Uneven Weight Distribution: Improperly distributed weight can lead to jackknife accidents. An unbalanced truck may be more susceptible to tipping during turns or sudden maneuvers.

Regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) require cargo loaders to follow specific procedures when securing cargo. Truck drivers must also inspect cargo during trips to make sure it is secured in place correctly. Violations of these rules may serve as evidence of negligence that led to a truck accident.

Traffic Violations Committed by Truck Drivers

Commercial truck drivers are expected to follow strict rules of the road and protect public safety. When they fail to do so, the consequences can be severe. Some common traffic violations that may lead to truck accidents include:

• Speeding: Large trucks require longer distances to stop. Speeding can make it more difficult for a truck driver to avoid a collision.
• Improper Lane Changes: Failing to signal, cutting off other vehicles, or merging unsafely can lead to side-impact crashes or other types of accidents.
• Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely can be particularly dangerous in large trucks due to their limited braking capability.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Intersection collisions involving trucks can be catastrophic due to the size and weight of these vehicles.
• Driving in Restricted Lanes or Areas: Some roads or zones prohibit trucks due to their dimensions or weight. Violating these rules can lead to dangerous accidents.

Traffic citations, dashcam footage, and eyewitness accounts can all support claims that a truck driver violated traffic laws and caused an accident.

Mechanical Failures and Equipment Malfunctions

Mechanical issues can cause trucks to lose control or break down unexpectedly, leading to collisions. These problems may result from poor maintenance, defective parts, or failure to conduct proper inspections. Mechanical failures that may lead to commercial truck accidents include:

• Brake Failures: Faulty or worn-out brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time, especially on downhill grades or in heavy traffic.
• Tire Blowouts: Worn or underinflated tires can cause blowouts, leading to loss of control or rollovers.
• Steering System Defects: Malfunctions that affect a driver's ability to steer correctly can make it impossible to maneuver a truck safely.
• Lighting Malfunctions: Non-functioning headlights or brake lights reduce visibility and increase the risk of collisions, particularly at night.
• Transmission Problems: Transmission failure can cause a sudden loss of power or unexpected shifts that may affect a truck driver's ability to maintain control of their vehicle.

Trucking companies are responsible for regular maintenance and inspections. When they neglect these duties, they may be liable for resulting accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Truck Accidents in Rolling Meadows, IL

Contact Our Rolling Meadows, IL Truck Accident Lawyers

In the aftermath of a truck accident, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. At Newland & Newland, LLP, our lawyers can provide you with effective legal representation as we advocate for compensation for your injuries. We understand the complexities involved in these cases, and we will work diligently to hold the negligent parties accountable. Reach out to our Rolling Meadows commercial truck accident attorneys by calling 847-797-8000 and arranging a free consultation.