Champaign Truck Accident Attorneys

When you are driving on the highways of Illinois, especially around Champaign, sharing the road with large trucks is inevitable. While most truck drivers are skilled and cautious, the sheer size and weight of these vehicles can lead to devastating accidents when things go wrong. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, understanding your legal rights is crucial. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, our experienced Champaign truck accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Truck Accidents in Champaign

Truck accidents are not just common traffic incidents; they involve intricate dynamics and unique legal challenges. In Champaign, truck accidents can result from various factors, including driver fatigue, negligent driving, poorly loaded cargo, mechanical failures and hazardous road conditions.

Illinois had 11,922 truck accidents involving tractor-trailers in 2022, accounting for 4 percent of all crashes in the state. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Champaign had around 54 truck accidents that year.

Have you ever wondered why truck accidents often cause more severe injuries than car crashes? Truck accidents are dangerous mainly due to the size of trucks, which can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. In 2022, IDOT found that 76 tractor-trailer occupants suffered injuries compared to 256 occupants of other vehicles during collisions.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Champaign?

Each truck accident claim is different. However, certain causes are reported more often than others. Negligence from irresponsible trucking companies or distracted truck drivers is often a factor in injury-causing truck accidents.

• Fatigued driving: Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight deadlines, leading to exhaustion. Fatigue can slow reaction times, impair judgment and even cause drivers to fall asleep behind the wheel, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Distracted driving: Adjusting the GPS, eating while driving or using a smartphone diverts attention from the road. Even a momentary distraction can result in a severe accident when driving a large truck.
• Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers: Operating a large truck requires specialized skills and knowledge. Drivers who lack proper training or experience are more prone to making mistakes, such as improper turns, misjudging stopping distances or overcorrecting in emergencies.
• Blind spots: Trucks have large blind spots. When other vehicles drive in these areas, truck drivers may not see them and accidentally cause collisions when changing lanes or turning.
• Improperly loaded cargo: Trucks must be loaded correctly to prevent the cargo from shifting during transit. If the load is unbalanced or exceeds weight limits, the truck may be harder to control, increasing the likelihood of rollover accidents or jackknifing.
• Mechanical failures: Poor truck maintenance, such as faulty brakes, worn tires or malfunctioning steering systems, can result in accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are properly maintained.

Truck Accident Injuries

Truck accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries and even fatalities. Along with painful injuries, they are likely to result in significant financial burdens due to medical expenses, loss of income and rehabilitation costs. That’s why it is essential to have a dedicated Champaign truck accident lawyer who understands the specific challenges involved and can offer the legal representation you need.

Tractor-trailer accidents make up 3.1 percent of all injury crashes in Illinois. Additionally, 13.6 percent of all injuries in such accidents are A-injuries. A-injuries are incapacitating injuries that prevent a crash victim from carrying out daily activities normally, such as walking or driving. Some examples include abdominal injuries, broken limbs, chest injuries, skull injuries or severe lacerations.

The Compensation You Deserve

Truck accidents can have life-altering consequences, and filing a personal injury claim can help you recover compensation. Compensation in truck accident claims can cover various damages, including medical expenses, loss of earnings, and pain and suffering. But how do we calculate these damages accurately?

Our experienced Champaign truck accident attorneys work closely with medical professionals, financial experts and life care planners to fully assess the extent of your injuries and losses. We strive to ensure that every aspect of your suffering, both economic and non-economic, is accounted for in the damages you receive.

Moreover, if the truck accident resulted in the wrongful death of a loved one, we are here to support you in pursuing a wrongful death claim to seek justice on behalf of your family. From 2021 to 2022, Illinois saw a 31.4 percent increase in fatalities resulting from tractor-trailer crashes.

Key Considerations in Truck Accident Cases

Truck accident liability is often complex and can involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company or even the vehicle manufacturer. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation and understanding of state and federal regulations governing the trucking industry.

Our Champaign truck accident lawyers excel at dissecting the complexities of such cases and identifying negligent parties. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg meticulously analyzes accident reports, reviews truck driver logs and collaborates with experts in accident reconstruction. Additionally, we look into the trucking company’s compliance with safety standards, which can be a significant factor in determining fault. With such comprehensive scrutiny, we aim to establish a clear and compelling case that secures the compensation you are entitled to.

Steps to Take After a Champaign Truck Accident

In the unfortunate event of a truck accident, knowing the right steps to take can significantly impact your ability to recover damages. Here are some critical actions to consider immediately after a truck accident in Champaign:

1. First, ensure everyone involved in the truck accident is safe and call emergency services. Check for injuries.
2. Report the crash to the police. A police report provides an official account of the truck accident, which can be helpful for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Be polite, but avoid discussing fault at the scene. Statements made immediately after the accident can be used against you later.
3. Document the accident scene by taking photos with your phone, such as of road conditions, skid marks and vehicle damage.
4. Gather contact details from witnesses, which can be invaluable in building your case. Also, get the contact, insurance and vehicle information from the truck driver and any other parties involved.
5. Be sure to seek medical attention, even if injuries initially appear minor. Adrenaline can mask pain immediately following an accident.
6. After addressing pressing safety concerns, reach out to a Champaign truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal advice can prevent costly mistakes and help preserve crucial evidence. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we are dedicated to providing prompt and professional assistance to guide you through this difficult time.

Champaign Truck Accident Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster contacts me?

If the trucking company’s insurance adjuster contacts you, be cautious. Their goal is to minimize the amount they have to pay, and they might use your statements against you. We advise you not to provide recorded statements or sign any documents without consulting your Champaign truck accident attorney first.

What is the time limit for filing a truck accident claim in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for truck accident claims is typically two years from the crash date. However, specific circumstances may alter this timeframe, so it is essential to consult with a Champaign truck accident attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected.

What if I am partly at fault for the truck accident?

A modified comparative negligence rule applies in Illinois, meaning you are still eligible to recover compensation if you are less than 50 percent at fault for the crash. Your damages, however, may be reduced according to your percentage of fault. Our skilled attorneys will analyze the details of your case to minimize any fault attributed to you, maximizing your potential recovery.

Why You Need a Champaign Truck Accident Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and trucking corporations. Did you know that trucking companies often have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests? This is where having a seasoned Champaign truck accident attorney by your side makes all the difference.

Our team at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is well-versed in Illinois traffic laws and federal trucking regulations. We are committed to investigating the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence and building a solid case on your behalf. Personal attention is our priority, and we ensure you are informed and comfortable with every step of the process. Whether negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to court, we are steadfast in pursuing justice for our clients.

Contact the Champaign Truck Accident Attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Today

If you have been involved in a truck accident, having experienced legal representation is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. The skilled team at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is dedicated to advocating for victims of truck accidents in Champaign, offering personalized attention and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Don’t face the complexities of your case alone. Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg today to schedule a free consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case.