One Collision Can Change Your Entire Life

Because of the sheer size of trucks and commercial vehicles, the impact of an accident can be astronomical. Trucks cause serious destruction and harm when involved in an accident, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. If you have lost a loved one or are suffering from injuries due to a trucking accident, you deserve compensation for your injuries and losses. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering.

Our trucking accident attorneys at Dunn Harrington Trial Lawyers have years of experience helping clients in Illinois, Ohio, Indiana and Michigan obtain compensation for their injuries. From investigating and filing your claim to litigating it in the courtroom, you can rely on our team of experienced personal injury attorneys to help you get the compensation you deserve.

When The Guidelines To Protect Your Safety Fail

The trucking and commercial vehicle industry is subject to state and federal guidelines by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that govern the actions of drivers and companies. These guidelines provide specific rules that truck drivers must follow to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Commercial motor vehicles that drive across big lines are subject to these regulations.

The FMCSA guidelines include:

• Age and license requirements
• Adequate insurance
• Truck inspections
• Truck safety
• Driving time limits
• Substance abuse and driving under the influence

Although these standards are in place, accidents still happen, often due to violations of the FMCSA guidelines. Our team of trucking accident lawyers can help you determine the cause of your accident and if any guidelines were violated.

Who Is At Fault?

Determining fault in a truck accident case can be complicated. While an accident between two passenger vehicles may be more obvious, multiple parties could be at fault in a trucking accident.

There are various parties that may be liable in a truck accident, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• Manufacturers of truck parts
• Maintenance companies
• Third parties

We will help investigate your accident to determine what caused the accident and why it happened. We will thoroughly examine every possible party and determine who is to blame. Whether the case is filed against one party or multiple, you can trust our attorneys to fight for the compensation you need to recover.

Common Types Of Injuries From A Truck Accident

A small passenger vehicle cannot typically withstand the impact forces involved in a truck accident, so the occupants of the smaller vehicle tend to suffer severe or catastrophic injuries in a truck collision, including:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): When the head sustains a forceful impact, a TBI becomes a risk, potentially resulting in severe brain trauma. Victims may experience long-term or permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss and emotional disturbances.
• Spinal cord injury (SCI): A spinal injury can be devastating for truck accident victims. Depending on the severity and location of the damage, a SCI can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive rehabilitation to regain function and mobility.
• Neck and back injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs and vertebral fractures are common in truck accidents. These injuries can cause chronic pain and limited mobility, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
• Broken bones: Many dismiss broken bones as minor, but the force of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures in various body areas. Treatment may involve immobilization, pain management and sometimes surgery to realign and support bone healing.
• Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs can occur due to the impact of a truck accident. Hidden internal hemorrhaging is also a risk in truck collisions. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Severe burns: In accidents involving fire or explosions, victims can suffer extensive burns, leading to excruciating pain, disfigurement and permanent scarring. Comprehensive medical treatment, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgery, is often necessary.
• Cuts and lacerations: Shattered glass and debris can cause deep cuts and penetration wounds. Although not typically life-threatening, they can result in significant blood loss and may require stitches. For deep penetrations, surgery may even be necessary.

Unfortunately, truck accidents are common in the United States, with about 32% causing injuries and 3% of collisions resulting in death. In 2022, Illinois was among the top five states with the most truck accidents, highlighting the potential danger.

If you have suffered severe injuries in a trucking accident or lost a cherished loved one, Dunn Harrington Trial Lawyers can help you find justice.

Fighting For Your Recovery

Trucking accidents cause serious consequences that may impact all aspects of your life. If you are suffering from an injury and have mounting medical bills, or if you haven’t been able to return to work, you may be able to receive compensation. Our attorneys have recovered more than $500 million for our clients, and we are steadfast in our dedication to fighting for our clients. Contact us at 312-548-7221 or fill out an online contact form to schedule a free consultation.