Why do most truck accidents happen?

On Behalf of Johnston Law Offices P.C   |   Jan 7, 2020   |   Truck Accidents ,

Collisions between commercial trucks and private vehicles happen far more often in Illinois than they should. Really, they shouldn’t happen at all, but that would be in a perfect world. Why do most truck accidents happen?

There are several reasons why semi-trailers crash. At the end of the day, it all comes down to driver decisions. When a truck driver is doing, or has done, any of the following, an accident is likely to occur:

  • Speeding
  • Using handheld electronic devices
  • Working too many hours
  • Fails to inspect the equipment

Truck accidents also often occur when drivers are not adequately trained or when cargo is not correctly secured — among other things. Of course, truck drivers are not likely to immediately accept the blame for these collisions. Victim blaming is common following such events.

It does not matter when or where truck accidents happen in the state of Illinois; if truck driver or company negligence is believed a contributing factor, victims or — in the event of fatality — their surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for their losses. This is true even if the victim is thought partially responsible for the event. How much compensation one might receive depends on numerous factors, though — every case is different.

Anyone who has been injured or lost loved ones in truck accidents can turn to legal counsel in order to determine the best way to confront the matter. Fair and balanced settlement terms are often reached through the negotiations process without having to set foot in a courtroom. However, sometimes, going to court is one’s best bet for receiving maximum relief.