Lawyers Protecting Your Rights After A Chicago Truck Accident
Trucking companies and their drivers must follow strict federal and state laws. When they ignore these rules, innocent motorists can suffer serious injuries or even death. If a negligent trucker or company has impacted your life or caused the loss of a loved one, you need a law firm that fully understands these complex regulations. We will answer all your questions.
At Kent M. Lucaccioni, Ltd., our Chicago truck accident attorneys bring over a century of combined experience to your case. We leverage this extensive knowledge to identify all responsible parties and fight to secure maximum compensation for our injured clients. We understand that after a serious accident, traveling may be difficult. That’s why we offer flexible consultation options, including convenient home visits or virtual meetings via Zoom, to accommodate your needs. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Why Truck Accidents Happen
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets critical safety standards for the trucking industry. These regulations cover everything from proper driver screening and qualification, including disclosing past accidents, to vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices. When these rules are violated, it often leads to negligence and serious accidents.
Common causes of truck accidents in the Chicago area include:
- Driver fatigue, which might be due to hours of service violations
- Impaired driving, which might be due to the use of drugs and/or alcohol
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
- Truck defects or improper maintenance
- Failing to check blind spots
- Distracted driving (e.g., cellphone use)
- Improper lane changes or failing to use turn signals
This list is not exhaustive, and our attorneys are ready to handle any type of truck accident case. With their deep experience and knowledge of truck laws, our team of lawyers meticulously pursues full compensation for seriously injured clients, including those involving wrongful death. They understand the tactics insurance companies use to minimize claims and are prepared to counter them effectively.
What To Know After A Truck Accident In Illinois
If you or a loved one has suffered catastrophic injuries in a serious truck accident, our attorneys at Kent M. Lucaccioni, Ltd., understand the immense challenges you face. We’ve guided many clients through similar tragedies.
At such a difficult time, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. That’s why we offer free initial consultations to all prospective clients and provide answers to common questions here. After reading, we invite you to contact our office for a personalized discussion of your case.
Who’s accountable after a truck accident?
Truckers are professional drivers whose primary job is the safe delivery of freight. Their employers, the trucking companies, are responsible for hiring, training and monitoring drivers to minimize accident risks. Because of this, when a truck driver causes a crash, their employer is often also at fault. We can help you pursue claims against both the driver and the trucking company, as well as their insurers.
Do I really need to hire a personal injury lawyer? Can’t I just take a settlement?
While you are not required to hire an attorney, and you are free to accept a settlement, caution is advised. If a trucking or insurance company offers you a settlement without negotiation, it’s highly probable that the offer is significantly less than what you truly need to cover your expenses and long-term needs.
Experienced attorneys, like those at our firm, understand the tactics defendants use to minimize payouts. We work tirelessly to help you seek full and fair compensation, ensuring that any offer truly reflects the harm you’ve suffered.
How much is my case worth?
It’s impossible to give an accurate figure without first discussing the specifics of your case. Each personal injury claim is unique. The value of damages we pursue on your behalf depends on many factors, including:
- The severity and extent of your injuries
- Whether your injuries will result in permanent disability
- Medical expenses and expected future medical expenses
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Your total lost wages from being unable to work
- Pain and suffering
Truck accident lawsuits often result in significantly higher compensation than other car accident cases. This is because collisions involving large trucks are far more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Despite what critics say, plaintiffs are not seeking a “jackpot.” Instead, victims almost always need compensation to cover the profound physical and financial burdens that come with such a devastating crash.
How long can I wait before filing a lawsuit?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits is generally two years from the date of injury or death. However, it is critical not to wait until the last minute. As time passes, crucial evidence can be lost or destroyed, memories fade, and insurance companies actively work to shape a narrative that could weaken your claim.
Your health is your top priority after a serious injury. Once you’ve received medical treatment and stabilized your condition, please call our office. We can begin working on your legal options while you focus on recovery and your family.
Is it better to go to trial or settle out of court?
The best approach is whichever method is most likely to achieve a positive outcome for you and your family. This often depends on the defendants’ willingness to take responsibility and negotiate in good faith.
If the insurance company and trucking company agree to a reasonable settlement offer that covers your expenses and acknowledges what you’ve endured, settling out of court is usually preferable. It saves time, reduces stress and avoids the costs of a trial. Our attorneys will always strive to settle your case first if these criteria are met. However, if the defendants refuse to negotiate fairly, our team will not hesitate to take your case to trial.
Why should I hire your firm over other attorneys in the area?
Our firm stands out with over 100 years of combined legal experience and more than $150 million recovered for clients. Our experience and professionalism define how we approach every case. Unlike some firms that seek quick settlements or avoid challenging cases, we have a proven history of successfully taking on complex cases when others wouldn’t.
Our firm is built on three core principles: preparation, dedication and results. When we accept your case, we are committed to standing by you from start to finish. You and your legal matter will receive the respect and focused attention you deserve.
Don’t Wait. Schedule Your Free Consultation With A Trucking Accident Attorney Today.
Our lawyers can take immediate action after a serious truck accident. Schedule a free initial consultation with the law firm of Kent M. Lucaccioni, Ltd., at our Chicago or Elgin office. You can reach us at 877-930-2551, or contact us online. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we secure compensation for you.
