Schaumburg Truck Accident Attorneys

Truck accidents are a serious concern in Illinois, especially in suburban areas like Schaumburg. The village’s proximity to major highways, including I-90 and I-290, makes it a high-traffic area for commercial vehicles. As a result, accidents involving large trucks are unfortunately common. Tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles pose a significant risk to smaller vehicles and pedestrians, given their size and weight. Truck accidents often lead to severe injuries, fatalities, and complex legal battles, making it critical for victims and their families to seek legal representation from experienced attorneys.

At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, our Schaumburg truck accident attorneys have decades of experience representing victims of truck accidents throughout the Chicago area. Since 1987, we have been committed to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve, and we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a truck accident, our team will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation needed to rebuild your life.

The Growing Concern of Truck Accidents in Illinois

Truck accidents continue to be a growing issue in Illinois, and the statistics reflect the gravity of the situation. According to the most recent statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 1,147 fatal crashes in Illinois in 2022, leading to 1,268 deaths. While this marks a 5% decrease in fatal crashes and fatalities compared to 2021, truck accidents present a unique challenge. In particular, crashes involving tractor-trailers increased significantly in 2022. IDOT reported 11,922 crashes involving tractor-trailers, accounting for 4% of all crashes in the state. Additionally, IDOT reported the following: 

• 34% increase in fatal crashes involving tractor-trailers from 2021 to 2022;
• 31.4% increase in fatalities involving tractor-trailers in the same period;
• Injury crashes involving tractor-trailers represent 3.1% of all injury crashes, with 13.6% classified as “A-injuries,” meaning they are severe injuries.

These statistics underscore the dangers that trucks pose on Illinois roads. Schaumburg is no exception, and given the high volume of traffic passing through the village, the risk of being involved in a serious truck accident remains significant. 

What You Need to Know About Truck Accidents in Schaumburg, Illinois

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Schaumburg

Several factors can lead to truck accidents, and many involve the negligence of either the truck driver or the trucking company. These accidents often result in catastrophic consequences due to the size and weight of commercial trucks compared to smaller passenger vehicles. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Schaumburg include the following:

• Driver fatigue. Truck drivers are often required to drive for extended periods, which can lead to exhaustion and impaired judgment.
• Speeding. Trucks that exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions have less time to react and require more distance to stop.
• Distracted driving. Like other drivers, truck operators may be distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab distractions.
• Improper maintenance. A truck that has not been properly maintained can suffer from mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues.
• Overloaded trucks. Trucks carrying more than the legal weight limit are more challenging to control, increasing the risk of accidents.

Each of these causes presents different legal challenges, but they all stem from negligence. Proving negligence is central to obtaining compensation. Our experienced Schaumburg truck accident attorneys know how to investigate truck accidents, uncover the root causes, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

What To Do After a Truck Accident in Schaumburg

The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially if you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries. Taking the right steps immediately after the accident is crucial to protecting your legal rights. Here are a few essential things to keep in mind:

1. Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, getting checked out by a medical professional is important. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document the accident. If you can, take photos of the accident, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses and exchange information with the truck driver.
3. Report the accident, notify the police, and file a report. This document will be critical in any future legal proceedings.
4. Contact an attorney. Truck accidents involve multiple parties, including the trucking company, its insurance provider, and possibly the manufacturer of defective truck parts. Having a skilled attorney on your side ensures that your interests are represented throughout the legal process.

Taking these steps can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Contacting our team today can help put your mind at ease. Let us help you start your personal injury claim today.

Types of Compensation You Can Pursue

Truck accidents often leave victims with severe, life-changing injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. The physical pain and emotional trauma are only part of the burden; the financial toll these injuries place on you and your family can be overwhelming. Common types of compensation after a truck accident claim include the following: 

• Medical expenses. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing medical care you need due to the accident. We’ll ensure every future medical cost is factored into your claim.
• Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income, both for time already missed and for potential future earnings you may not recover due to your injuries.
• Pain and suffering. Your physical and emotional pain is real, and it deserves to be recognized. Compensation can cover the lasting impact of the accident on your quality of life.
• Property damage. Besides your personal injuries, you can recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any items damaged in the crash.
• Loss of consortium. If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, you may be able to pursue compensation for the loss of companionship, emotional support, and other ways their death has impacted your life.

Every truck accident case has its own set of facts and challenges, and the amount of compensation you can recover depends on the specifics of your situation. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we have successfully recovered millions of dollars for victims of truck accidents, and we are relentless in pursuing the maximum compensation for our clients. We take the time to understand how the accident affected you and your family, and we’ll fight to ensure you get what you deserve.

Understanding Illinois Trucking Regulations

Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow federal and state regulations to keep everyone safe. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces rules covering essential areas like how long a driver can stay behind the wheel, ensuring vehicles are properly maintained, and ensuring drivers meet strict qualifications before they hit the road. In addition to these federal laws, Illinois has its regulations. Some key Illinois trucking regulations include the following: 

• Hours of service restrictions. Truck drivers are limited in how many hours they can drive daily and weekly to prevent fatigue and reduce accidents.
• Weight limits. Trucks must operate within specific weight limits, with overloaded trucks facing hefty fines and increased accident risks.
• Maintenance requirements. Trucking companies must regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles to ensure they’re safe to drive on the road.

Despite these safeguards, violations happen far too often, putting innocent lives in danger. When a truck driver or company breaks these rules and causes an accident, they can and should be held accountable. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we know Illinois trucking regulations inside and out. We use this knowledge to build strong cases and fight for full compensation for our clients.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Truck Accident Case?

The time it takes to resolve a truck accident case varies widely depending on the specifics. Some cases may settle within a few months, while more complicated ones could take a year or longer. The severity of injuries plays a significant role—serious injuries often require extended medical treatment, and it’s important to understand the full scope of damages before settling.

Negotiations with insurance companies can also impact the timeline, as insurers often attempt to reduce their payouts, resulting in back-and-forth discussions. If the case involves disputed liability, such as when multiple parties may be at fault (e.g., the truck driver, the trucking company, or maintenance providers), it can take longer to sort out responsibility.

Finally, if the case goes to trial, the availability of the local courts can further extend the process. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we work diligently to resolve your case efficiently while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Why Choose Briskman Briskman & Greenberg?

At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we know how life-altering a truck accident can be for you and your family. Since 1987, we have been standing up for personal injury victims across the Chicago area, including Schaumburg, securing millions of dollars in compensation. Our success comes from the genuine relationships we build with each client.

When you choose us, you’re not just another case. We take the time to fully understand how the accident has impacted your life, allowing us to craft a strategy that fits your situation. Our attorneys fight hard to protect your rights and make sure you get the compensation you deserve to move forward. To learn more about the services we provide and to schedule a free consultation today, give Briskman Briskman & Greenberg a call today at (877) 595-4878, you can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.