Truck accidents are unfortunately quite common in Illinois. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh around 80,000 pounds, about 20 times heavier than the average car. That means the outcomes of these accidents can be incredibly severe. That’s especially true because of the high speeds at which these trucks operate.
Crucial Evidence After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been hurt in an accident with a commercial truck, finding an attorney skilled in working with accident to sort through the complex issues of trucking accidents is critical. There are many rules that truck drivers and companies must follow, and knowing if any were broken is key to figuring out who’s at fault.
Important areas to investigate after a trucking accident include:
- Driver’s hours of service: These rules limit how long a driver can be on the road before needing a break. Drivers’ log books are important but can be tampered with, making other evidence like cell phone records, fuel receipts, and toll receipts very important.
- Evidence from data recorders: Like airplanes, many big rigs have data recorders that can provide crucial information about what happened in an accident.
- Condition of the truck: Examining the truck’s physical state and maintenance records can offer clues to the crash’s cause.
It’s vital to act quickly to gather this information before it’s potentially lost, either accidentally or on purpose. This is why it is so important to have an experienced truck accident attorney to start collecting this key evidence right away.
Liability and Questions After a Trucking Accident
Many parties might be involved in the aftermath of a trucking accident, not just the injured. This includes the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck’s manufacturer, those responsible for the truck’s upkeep, and possibly the cargo’s owner.
With high financial stakes, these parties will have their lawyers ready to defend them. This is why you need an experienced attorney to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you’re owed.
Things to Do After a Trucking Accident
As experienced DeKalb County truck accident lawyers, we advise anyone injured in a trucking accident to:
- Seek medical help immediately and follow up with any needed specialists.
- Keep thorough records, including the police report, photos of the scene, medical bills, repair bills, and any insurance company correspondence.
- Limit what you say about the accident, especially to the other party’s insurance company. What you’ve said could be used against you.
- Contact a trucking accident attorney. Insurers might try to persuade you that you don’t need legal help, but studies show that represented victims usually receive higher compensation.
Experienced DeKalb Truck Accident Lawyers
At Crosby & Crosby, we handle all types of truck accident cases, from 18-wheelers to delivery vans. We support both injured persons and families who’ve lost loved ones. Here’s how we can help:
- Ensuring adequate compensation for damages and injuries.
- Collecting evidence to support your claim, including eyewitness accounts, photos, and videos.
- Representing you in court if necessary, organizing evidence, and preparing you for testimony.
If you’ve been in a truck-related accident in DeKalb County, we’re here to help in every way possible. We urge you not to wait. Contact Crosby & Crosby today at 815-367-6432 to schedule a free consultation.
Let our experienced DeKalb County personal injury lawyers assist you with your truck
