Illinois Truck Accident Lawyer Blog

Earlier today, our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys read a report on Whig.com detailing a single-vehicle collision involving a semi truck on Illinois Interstate 72. Illinois State Police report that a semi truck was traveling westbound on the interstate when the truck’s driver fell asleep behind the wheel and drove his vehicle off the road. Upon exiting the interstate, the commercial vehicle struck a guardrail and proceeded to destroy over 200 feet of guardrail before colliding into a concrete bridge. The driver of the semi truck received a ticket from Illinois police for improper lane usage and operating a commercial vehicle while fatigued.

Driver fatigue has continued to be one of the leading causes of large commercial vehicle accidents nationwide. Not only does driver fatigue include a semi truck driver falling asleep behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound vehicle, it also slows driver reaction time, as well as, effects judgment and vision. According to research conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, more than 750 fatalities and over 20,000 injuries result each year from fatigued commercial vehicle drivers. Unfortunately, driver fatigue not only plagues drivers of large commercial vehicle, but drivers of passenger vehicles as well.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there are more than 55,000 driver fatigued-related accidents that occur nationwide each year. Although driver fatigue can affect any and all types of drivers, SmartMotorist.com reports that there are five population groups that are at the highest risk based on reports of motor vehicle crashes and self-reports of sleep behavior and driving performance.
- Young People: individuals ages 16-29 with irregular sleep patterns and those who drive long distances late at night
- Shift Workers: individuals whose sleep schedule is disrupted by working at night or long/irregular hours
- Sleep Disorder Victims: individuals with untreated sleep apnea or narcolepsy
- Individuals taking Medications: many medications induce drowsiness
- Drunk Drivers: operated intoxicated additionally aides to drowsiness

In order to prevent the number of devastating injuries and fatalities that result each year from Illinois semi truck accidents, our Illinois truck accident lawyers recommend that drivers of all types of motor vehicles: get sufficient sleep, never driver intoxicated, pull over when drowsy and limit night driving. Drivers who operate fatigue not only put themselves and surrounding vehicles in danger, they may be subjected to harsh fines and other penalties associated with this dangerous offense. If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi truck collision, please contact a Chicago truck accident lawyer to see what legal rights may be available to you.

A fatal semi truck collision took the life of a 78-year-old Illinois woman earlier this weekend – according to a report published by Madison.com. The Peoria woman was pronounced dead at the scene after her vehicle crossed an interstate highway median and struck an oncoming large commercial vehicle. The driver of the semi truck remained unharmed in the collision. It took road crews over four and a half hours to clean up the wreckage from the tragic semi truck accident. Local authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.

Motor vehicle crashes attributed to crossing a roadway median has become an increasing cause of traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Over the past couple years, a majority of these devastating accidents involved improper vehicle handling on the part of a large commercial driver. Earlier this month, our Chicago truck accident lawyers read a report published by the National Transportation Safety Board that discussed that a contributing factor in the severity of these median crossing crashes is due to inadequately designed median barriers.

A majority of median barriers were not designed to safely contain or redirect a heavy vehicle. Additionally, safety of median barriers has been unable to improve given that “median crossing crashes” is a broad definition that is not included in Fatality Analysis Reporting System data. To help prevent the cross median accident rate, states must develop sufficiently wide medians that allow drivers who leave the roadway to recover control of their vehicles and re-enter the highway in the correct direction. According to RoadSafetyToolkit.com, wider medians significantly reduce the number of head on collisions.

With concern about cross median crashes increasing nationwide, our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys urge readers to safely operate their vehicle when traveling on our busy Illinois roadways. With large commercial vehicles accounting for a majority of roadway users, extreme caution must be exercised during travel to avoid a potential Illinois semi truck accident. Due to the sheer size and weight of a commercial vehicle, a head on collision with a semi tractor-trailer causes significantly more damage than a similar type of collision involving a passenger vehicle.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois semi truck accident lawyer. Our experienced accident attorneys will provide a free initial consultation to help determine what legal rights and relief may be available to you.

Earlier this week, a personal injury lawsuit was filed on behalf of a woman who sustained severe injury and damages as a result of a semi truck accident. Our Chicago truck accident lawyers read on SeTexasRecord.com that the tragic accident occurred in 2009 when the plaintiff was traveling along an interstate highway when she was rear-ended by a Freightliner truck towing a semi-trailer. According to court documents, the plaintiff states that the semi truck driver failed to control the speed of his commercial vehicle and struck the rear end of the plaintiff’s passenger vehicle. The lawsuit names both the semi truck driver and his trucking carriers as the defendants in the semi truck lawsuit.

The lawsuit alleges that the semi truck driver acted negligently for failure to maintain an assured clear distance between his vehicle and the victims, failure to maintain a proper lookout, failure to timely apply brakes, failure to control vehicle, failure to act or respond in a reasonable manner that would avoid an accident, in addition to, failure to control the commercial vehicle’s speed. The semi truck driver’s two trucking carriers face additional charges including: negligent entrustment to an unlicensed, incompetent or reckless driver, hiring and retaining an unlicensed, incompetent or reckless driver, as well as, failure to properly train their commercial vehicle drivers.

The accident victim is currently seeking an undisclosed amount of damages for medical expenses, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment, physical disfigurement, loss of earning capacity, interest, court costs and fees.

When severe harm is sustained as a direct result of another’s negligent or careless actions, civil trucking litigation can help accident victims and their families receive compensation for their losses, as well as, punish the wrongdoer for their negligent conduct. Injuries suffered as a result of negligent semi truck accidents can be life-altering and often results in various damages including medical expenses, lost wages, on top of the emotional pain and suffering incurred as a result of the accident.

If you or a loved one has sustained serious injury as a result of an Illinois semi truck accident, it is important to obtain experienced legal aid from knowledgeable Illinois semi truck accident attorneys. The attorneys at Levin & Perconti will examine the facts of your case, evaluate your claim, review available options, as well as, work with insurance companies and other involved parties in your case to ensure that you or your loved one is properly assisted in your time of need.

Earlier this morning, CBSNews.com reported a devastating semi truck accident that took the lives of seven individuals and sent an additional four to the hospital. A minivan carrying ten occupants was traveling along a state toll road when the vehicle was rear-ended by a semi tractor-trailer traveling behind it. While exact accident details remain unclear, witnesses at the scene state that the minivan had began to slow down in the eastbound lane after striking a deer prior to being rear-ended by the large commercial vehicle. Seven occupants of the minivan were pronounced dead at the scene while the remaining three passengers, as well as, the semi truck driver were immediately hospitalized. The accident currently remains under investigation.

When a large commercial vehicle travels too closely behind a passenger vehicle, such as stated in the article, the results can be tragic. In a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it was determined that aggressive driving, such as following too closely, is the second leading violation committed by drivers of commercial vehicles. Due to the sheer size and weight of semi tractor-trailers, the amount of time it takes to stop these 80,000 pound vehicles substantially increases. In an addition study conducted by the NHTSA, it was found that the average stopping distance for a fully loaded large commercial vehicle traveling at 55 mph is 196 feet – compared to 133 feet for passenger vehicles. Our Chicago truck accident attorneys know that when you combine a semi trucks weight and size, in addition to, close traveling distances with passenger vehicles – accidents involving injuries and fatalities are likely to occur.

Our Chicago semi truck accident lawyers at Levin & Perconti maintain extensive knowledge when handling all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those involving large commercial vehicles. Victims of Illinois semi truck accidents may be able to obtain legal relief from the damages they have incurred as a result of another’s negligence or carelessness. Types of damages that may be obtained include: cost of medical expenses, loss of wages, as well as, physical and emotional pain and suffering. If you have been involved in a semi truck accident or have lost a loved one at the hands of negligent semi truck driver, please contact an Illinois personal injury lawyer. Our experienced accident attorneys will provide a free initial consultation to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

A preliminary hearing for the semi truck driver who caused the death of another driver in an Illinois semi truck accident earlier this month has received a felony charge of accident involving death or personal injury while not properly licensed to drive. In a report published by CentreDaily.com, the accident transpired when the semi truck driver rear-ended a dump driver on Interstate 80 in Marion Township. The collision caused the dump truck to driver off the road and caused a subsequent roll-over. Although the 24-year-old driver of the dump truck was wearing his seat belt at the time of the collision, he was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering substantial internal bleeding due to a lung laceration.

Yesterday, an Illinois district judge found a considerable amount of evidence to bind over the charges to trial, due to the fact that it would have had to take a significant impact to force the dump truck off the road. An accident reconstruction specialist, who testified at the preliminary hearing, stated that the semi’s tractor-trailer was overweight, in addition to, having brake issues at the time of the Illinois semi truck accident. Additional evidence, such as toxicology results of the semi truck driver are still pending. The semi truck driver is currently being held on a $150,000 straight bail.

The risk of a large commercial vehicle accident resulting in death and/or serious injury progressively increases with each extra ton of weight over the 80,000 pound federal legal limit the vehicle maintains. According to research conducted at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, even when a semi truck weighs the legal 80,000 pounds, it is more than twice as likely to be involved in a fatal crash than a truck weighing about 50,000 pounds. Additionally, large commercial vehicles weighing the legal limit or over require a substantial amount of stopping time – subsequently often resulting in collisions due to inability to stop in time.

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers share extensive knowledge and experience when handling devastating Illinois semi truck accidents such as this one. We continue to provide legal representation to those whose lives have been turned upside down as the result of a semi truck accident. Negligent semi truck drivers and their trucking companies need to be held responsible for the harm they have inflicted by means of compensatory and punitive damages. If you or someone you know has been severely injured or killed as a result of a trucking accident, please contact an Illinois semi truck accident attorney to see what legal rights may be available to you.

Our Illinois semi truck accident lawyers recently read a report published on KSPR.com detailing the arrest of a semi truck driver upon discovering marijuana in his commercial vehicle. The article reports that during a routine inspection of the semi truck by a commercial vehicle officer at an interstate highway weigh station, the officer discovered discrepancies between the conversation with the truck driver and the inspection of his vehicle. The inconsistencies prompted the officer to ask to search the commercial vehicle where 213 pounds of marijuana were uncovered. The driver of the commercial vehicle was immediately arrested and is currently facing charges of drug trafficking.

Although the article does not state if the driver of the commercial vehicle was under the influence of marijuana during vehicle operation, the subject of semi truck drivers and marijuana use has proven to be an increasing epidemic in the past few years. According to a recent study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Traffic Safety, is was discovered that over 15% of semi truck drivers involved in the research tested positive for marijuana during the study. An additional study was conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board revealed that 12.5% of all fatal truck accidents involved the use of marijuana.

Marijuana use by the driver of an 80,000 pound vehicle can pose a significant threat to driving ability, in addition to, the safety of surrounding vehicles. Marijuana directly impairs a commercial vehicle driver’s central nervous system, which can cause side effects such as: slowed reaction time, temporary memory loss, as well as, difficulty concentrating. These side effects will ultimately hinder a driver’s ability to properly control his/her vehicle and may result in a semi truck accident resulting in property damage, injury, and tragically -- even death.

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers share comprehensive knowledge when handling civil cases involving Illinois semi truck accidents in which marijuana use played a contributing factor. Recently, we obtained a $6.5 million settlement on behalf of an Illinois family who sustained severe injury and loss at the hands of a negligent semi truck driving accident. During the accident investigation process, it was discovered that at the time of the accident, the semi truck driver was under the influence of marijuana, in addition to, operating an overloaded trailer.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an Illinois semi truck accident, please contact the experienced Illinois wrongful death attorneys at Levin & Perconti to see what legal rights may be available to you.
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In the recent months, nationwide attention has been garnered on commercial vehicle safety through initiatives campaigned by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, as well as, the United States Department of Transportation. Due to this, a large number of commercial vehicle inspections have been conducted in the past couple weeks resulting in numerous issued violations. A recent report by the Wall Street Journal Online detailed how surprise commercial vehicle inspections have led to an increasing number of commercial vehicle and driver violations.

According to the report, federal authorities have conducted more than 30,000 surprise inspections nationwide of commercial vehicles (mainly large buses) through a variety of actions aimed at improving passenger safety in light of numerous high-profile tour bus crashes in the past year. Our Chicago semi truck accident lawyers read that through thorough investigations and compliance reviews, over 46 motor coach companies have been shut down by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration due to unsatisfactory evaluations. Strict regulations have been imposed on commercial vehicles due to a number of fatal accidents, such as one bus accident that occurred last March which resulted in over 15 fatalities.

The article points out that many commercial vehicle carriers are finding the new safety initiatives favorable and believe that surprise inspections will consistently encourage safe operating habits of commercial vehicle drivers, as well as, regular vehicle maintenance. On the other hand, many carriers would like to see law enforcement cracking down on commercial vehicle operators traveling at unsafe speeds. Given that one of the most common causes of commercial vehicle accidents is driver control, law enforcement nationwide must make it a priority to rigorously enforce speed regulations.

In an effort to continue safe regulation, administrators at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration are developing a smartphone application that would give consumers full access to information regarding the safety records of all commercial vehicles, especially bus companies. The application will also provide an easier way for motorists to report commercial vehicle safety violations to the FMCSA’s National Consumer Complaint Database. The application is expected to hit markets next month.

Our Chicago truck accident attorneys commend the efforts of agencies across the country to enforce federal and state commercial vehicle rules and regulations on a regular basis. By holding commercial vehicle drivers and their carriers to a higher standard, it encourages safe driving habits every time a vehicle is operated on our nation’s roadways and in turn help prevent that thousands of injuries and fatalities that result each from semi truck accidents.

Recently, Illinois State Police conducted a Commercial Vehicle Overweight Detail to investigate commercial vehicle violations in Gallatin County – according to a report published by Tristate-Media.com. The early morning investigation resulted in over fourteen commercial vehicles being weighed, of which two of the vehicles were issued citations for overweight violations while four vehicles received written warnings. Illinois State Police also issued additional citations and written warnings to commercial vehicle drivers for other discovered violations unrelated to excess weight.

The increase in law enforcement of commercial vehicles in Illinois District 19 is due in a large part to the 40 Illinois semi truck accidents that have transpired in 2011, of which five resulted in fatalities. The report states that Illinois law enforcement will continue to focus on commercial vehicle violations ranging from speeding, overweight, equipment, as well as, Commercial Driver’s License violations.

When the driver of a large commercial vehicle is found in violation of federal or state regulations, whether through an unsafe vehicle or questionable driving, a significant threat is posed to the safety of our roadways. Due to a large number of traffic deaths caused by commercial vehicles, the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act was established in 1986 to improve highway safety by ensuring that drivers of large trucks and buses are properly trained to operate such vehicles, in addition to, help remove unsafe and unqualified drivers from highway travel.

The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act also details major commercial vehicle violations that could result in the disqualification of a commercial vehicle driver. Some of the serious violations in the Act include:
- Speeding Excessively: any speed of 15 mph or more of the posted speed limits
- Driving Recklessly: in a manner that poses a threat to the safety of persons or property
- Making Improper or Erratic Lane Changes
- Driving a Commercial Vehicle Without Obtaining a Commercial Vehicle License
- Driving a Commercial Vehicle Without CVL in Driver’s Possession
- Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol or Controlled Substance

When any of the above mentioned violations plays a contributing factor in a semi truck accident, the driver of the commercial vehicle, as well as, his/her trucking company may be subject to civil trucking litigation for their role in an accident that resulted in injury or death. If you have been injured at the hands of a careless or negligent semi truck driver or have lost a loved one in a semi truck accident, please contact a Chicago semi truck accident lawyer. Our experienced Illinois accident attorneys will provide a free consultation to help determine what legal rights and relief may be available to you.

Yesterday, our Chicago truck accident lawyers read a report on WGIL.com detailing an Illinois semi truck accident that sent two drivers to the hospital. According to the report, the 91-year-old driver of a passenger vehicle was traveling southbound on 300N in McDonough County when the driver failed to yield to an oncoming semi tractor-trailer carrying a cargo of corn at the intersection of 1800E. The semi truck collided into the passenger side of the motor vehicle causing both vehicles to travel off the roadway -- resulting in the semi truck’s rollover. Both drivers, as well as, their vehicles sustained severe damages. The driver of the passenger vehicle has received a citation for failure to yield at a stop intersection for his role in the accident.

With the gradual increase in large commercial vehicles traveling the roadways in the United States in recent years, the number of accidents has significantly increased. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois semi truck accidents have accounted for between 8.6% - 10.6% of all fatal traffic accidents in the past five years. Additionally, in the United States, it is estimated that over 500,000 accidents involving commercial vehicles take place each year – according to the United States of Department of Transportation. Of those accidents, nearly 5,000 resulted in fatality.

In order to prevent the serious injuries and fatalities that result each year from semi truck accidents, drivers of passenger vehicles must exercise the same standard of care as that is required by semi truck drivers when operating their vehicle. This means that passenger vehicle drivers must always travel carefully around large commercial vehicles. Given the sheer size and weight of semi trucks, it makes it increasingly difficult for these vehicles to steer or maneuver to avoid a collision. Simple safe driving practices, such as obeying speed limits and avoiding a semi truck’s blind spot, can help make our roadways a safer place to travel.

Our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys continue to urge readers to drive carefully around large commercial vehicles. Collisions involving semi trucks, whether through the fault of the passenger vehicle driver or the semi truck driver, can cause severe property damage, injury, or even death. If you or a loved one has been involved in any type of motor vehicle accident, please contact our experienced Illinois personal injury lawyers for a free consultation to determine what legal rights may be available to you.

The Northwest Herald recently reported the settlement of an Illinois semi truck accident lawsuit. After a four day trial, the estate of a woman who was killed as a result of a head on collision with a semi truck was awarded $1.275 million. The fatal semi truck accident occurred several years ago when the 27-year-old was heading north on an Illinois interstate when her vehicle was struck head on by a commercial vehicle. The driver of the semi truck was originally charged with reckless homicide when it was alleged that she fell asleep behind the wheel – but charges were later dismissed. The truck driver ultimately plead guilty to improper lane use, in addition to, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. She was sentenced to a year of conditional discharge and a $1,000 fine.

The victim’s family and friends spoke to the jury during the trial to determine the amount of damages to be awarded. After a two hour jury deliberation, the jury awarded the family over one million dollars for their devastating loss, grief, sorrow, and mental suffering due to the untimely death of their 27-year-old daughter. During the criminal proceedings, prosecutors were unable to prove that the truck driver acted recklessly at the time of the accident. Although evidence did not prove that the truck driver suffered from a medical condition or impairment that could cause this type of accident, expert witnesses suggested that given the truck driver’s failure to change vehicle direction or speed while drifting into the oncoming lane is highly consistent when a driver has fallen asleep.

Our Chicago semi truck accident lawyers know that when the operator of a large commercial vehicle becomes drowsy or fatigued, the accident rate substantially increases – putting the driver, as well as, surrounding passenger vehicles at high risk. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, more than 750 fatalities and 20,000 injuries result each year from fatigued commercial vehicle drivers. In addition, each year truck driver fatigue has played a sole contributing factor in as many as 30-40% of semi truck accidents. This risk substantially increases when a semi truck driver is operating alone as opposed to being accompanied by a passenger.

The untimely death of a family member is a devastating loss and can cause substantial grief. When the negligent driving of another vehicle causes this type of accident, the victim’s family may be able to seek compensation for their loss. Please contact a Chicago truck accident accident attorney if you or a loved one has been critically injured or killed at the hands of a drowsy driver for a free consultation to see what legal rights may be available to you.

Yesterday, the Chicago Tribune reported a destructive semi truck accident that occurred just outside of Illinois state lines. At around 4:20 in the morning along the Borman Expressway and I-80, a semi truck hauling a load of steel coils interchanged two lanes on the interstate – ultimately smashing a minivan into the roadway’s median. The truck driver told local authorities that he lost control of his commercial vehicle due to the adverse weather conditions, which in turn blew out his left front tire.

Through a further police investigation, it was discovered that the commercial vehicle had no evidence of a flat tire and the driver was issued a citation for unsafe lane movement. Fortunately, as our Chicago truck accident lawyers read, the driver of the minivan was able to climb out of his vehicle and only sustained a mild contusion and head lacerations.

Midwestern states, especially Illinois, are notorious for their severe adverse weather conditions that seem to occur almost every season. Certain weather conditions (such as snow, rain, and wind) often create poor road conditions, as well as, reduced visibility for motor vehicle drivers.
This especially holds true for drivers of large commercial vehicles, whose vehicles often weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. Due to this, many Illinois semi truck accidents occur as a direct result of a truck driver’s failure to maintain a reasonable standard of care when operating their vehicle during questionable weather.

Under state and federal regulations, semi truck drivers are required to operate their vehicle in a safe and appropriate manner that avoids potential hazardous collisions. When a truck driver deviates from this standard of care and causes an accident resulting in injury or death … the driver, as well as, their trucking company may face civil and/or criminal charges.

Our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys at Levin & Perconti share comprehensive knowledge and experience in motor vehicle accidents caused by driver negligence. Recently, we obtained a $6.5 million settlement on behalf of the family of a 32-year-old woman who was killed in an Illinois semi truck accident. In an accident that also resulted in the woman’s husband and son sustaining severe injuries, it was discovered that the driver of the commercial vehicle who caused the accident was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the collision, in addition to, operating an overloaded trailer.

Those who knowingly commit negligent acts should be held legally liable for the various harms they inflict. If you have been injured in a semi truck accident, or have lost a loved one at the hands of a negligent semi truck driver, please contact an Illinois truck accident lawyer to see what legal rights may be available to you.

NAFA Fleet Management Association is strongly urging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to quickly enacted legislation that outlaws the use of cell phones during commercial vehicle operation – except in emergencies. TruckingInfo.com reports that the NAFA has expressed strong support of the National Transportation Safety Board recent recommendation to prohibit the use of cellular telephones, both handheld and hands-free, by all holders of commercial driver’s license during vehicle operation.

However, the FMCSA is taking their time to develop an outright ban and it currently contemplating a ban that only prohibits handheld cellular telephone use. In a letter composed by the NAFA and forwarded to the Secretary of Transportation, as well as, the administer of the FMCSA, the group states that the ban will be an important tool against distracted driving and will support the efforts of fleet managers to encourage their companies and agencies to strengthen safety programs with further restrictions on cell phone and text message usage.

In a response given by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the organization cites research conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute which proved that it is unclear if simply talking on a mobile device presents a significant risk. On the other hand, research shows that the act of reaching for an object increases the risk of a safety-hazard even by three times, while dialing increases the risk by six times. The research concluded that these risks are present due to the driver taking their eyes off the road.

The National Transportation Safety Board made these recommendations last month after a devastating semi truck accident took the life of 11 people. Through an extensive investigation, it was discovered that the driver of the 18-wheel semi truck was using his cell phone as the time of the collision. The driver had made four calls in the minutes leading up to the crash, with the time of the last conversation coinciding with the time his vehicle crossed an interstate median and collided with a 15-passenger van.

Research, conducted at the University of Utah, shows that using a cell phone while driving, whether hand-held or hands-free, delays a driver’s reaction as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08. Our Chicago truck accident lawyers strongly encourage the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to enact updated regulations which outright ban the use of cellular devices by drivers of large commercial vehicles. Illinois semi truck accidents caused by distracted drivers are 100% preventable when drivers adhere to strict regulations and operate their vehicle with the utmost care.

Our Illinois truck accident lawyers recently read an article, published on SeTexasRecord.com, detailing the recent filing of a wrongful death lawsuit. The lawsuit stems from a devastating fatal semi truck accident that occurred last month which resulted in the death of three family members. The accident ensued when the driver of a commercial vehicle lost control of his vehicle on an interstate highway and crossed the center median. Upon entering the oncoming lanes, the semi truck struck a minivan – causing the passenger vehicle to explode into flames, resulting in the death of all three of the vehicle’s occupants.

The wrongful death lawsuit, filed by the accident victim’s son/brother, alleges that the driver of the commercial vehicle: failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to avoid the incident in question, drove inattentively, failed to maintain his vehicle, failed to take proper evasive action, in addition to, failure to operate the vehicle as a reasonable and prudent person would have done under the same or similar circumstances. Due to these impeding factors, the wrongful death lawsuit names the driver’s trucking company as the sole defendant in this matter.

The plaintiff argues that the trucking company is responsible for their driver’s action under the theory of respondeat superior. Additionally, the trucking company is accused of negligent entrustment, negligent supervision, negligent hiring, as well as, negligent training. The plaintiff is seeking wrongful death and survival damages for mental anguish, loss of consortium, loss of advice and counsel, loss of services, funeral and medical expenses, loss of companionship, physical pain, disfigurement, physical impairment, court costs and interests.

Even though drivers of large commercial vehicles are required to adhere to strict rules and regulations enacted by our state and federal governments, semi truck accidents continue to occur each day – commonly resulting in devastating injuries and most often, untimely death. These accidents are commonly caused by the careless or negligent operation of vehicles that require the utmost care during travel. In a civil court of law, truck drivers and their companies are often found legally liable for negligence or wrongful death in semi truck accidents that result in the injury or fatality of another.

If you have been injured in an Illinois semi truck accident or have lost a loved one at the hands of a negligent semi truck driver, please contact a Chicago semi truck accident attorney to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

A 21-year-old motor vehicle driver has been charged with a number of offenses, including homicide by vehicle, due to his role is a recent fatal semi truck accident. In an article posted by LehighValleyLive.com, the driver was traveling the wrong way down an interstate when he collided with an oncoming commercial vehicle -- despite maneuvers by the semi truck to avoid the passenger vehicle. The collision caused the motor vehicle’s passenger to be ejected from the vehicle and resulted in his premature death.

During the investigative process, it was discovered that the driver of the vehicle had a blood alcohol content of 0.25 – more than three times the legal limit to operate a vehicle. The other charges filed against the driver include: homicide by vehicle while intoxicated, drunken driving, involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment, reckless driving, in addition to, driving the wrong way.

Any time a vehicle is operated by an alcohol-impaired driver, the risk for motor vehicle accidents involving injury or even death substantially increases. Every day, at least 30 fatalities results from motor vehicle accidents in the United States due to an alcohol-impaired driver. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2009 over 10,800 people were killed in accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver. Drunk driving accidents account for nearly 1/3 of all traffic related fatalities in the United States.

In order to prevent the devastating loss that results each year from collisions caused by alcohol-impaired drivers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that:
- Law enforcement actively enforce existing legal limits for driving under the influence
- Zero tolerance for drivers under the age of 21 operating intoxicated
- Using sobriety checkpoints
- Encourage community based approaches to alcohol control and DUI prevention
- Require DUI offenders mandatory substance abuse assessment and treatment options

Our Chicago truck accident attorneys strongly urge our readers to avoid driving under the influence. Alcohol-related accidents are severe and life-altering … especially when a large commercial vehicle is involved. Semi trucks are capable of doing immense damage in a collision – whether through the fault of the semi truck driver or even a passenger vehicle driver. Not only can an injury or fatality result from these types of accidents, but as the previously mentioned article highlights, drivers may be subjected criminal or civil charges.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related accident, please contact a Chicago personal injury lawyer to see what legal rights and relief may be available to you.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance has kicked off their annual Operation Safe Driver campaign this week. According to TruckingInfo.com, the campaign is designed to help reduce the aggressive and distracted driving of commercial vehicles around the country by garnering nationwide driver awareness. Throughout this week, law enforcement agencies across the United States will be rigorously monitoring any exhibits of aggressive or distracting driving behaviors of commercial, as well as, passenger vehicle drivers. The executive director of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance commented that many of the 4,000 deaths that result from large truck or bus accidents each year are attributed to unsafe and aggressive driving practices by both passenger and commercial vehicle drivers.

Operation Safe Driver will take place all across the United States, as well as, Canada and Mexico. The campaign, sponsored by agencies such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, as well as, American Trucking Association, aims to increase activities related to commercial and non-commercial vehicle traffic enforcement. Additionally, Operation Safe Driver seeks to rigorously enforce: use of safety belts, driver roadside safety inspections, driver regulatory compliance, implementation of commercial driver educational and awareness programs, in addition to, raising public awareness about safe operation around large trucks and buses.

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers continue to advocate safe driving practices by passenger vehicle drivers, especially around large commercial vehicles. Here are some helpful tips to avoid a potentially life-altering Illinois semi truck accident:
- Avoid semi truck blind spots. If you cannot see a truck driver’s mirrors – they cannot see you
- Never cut off a semi truck. Trucks take significantly longer to brake than passenger vehicles
- Never tailgate a semi truck. The greater the distance between your vehicle and a commercial vehicle will decrease the risk of a collision
- Never speed. Always obey posted speed limits
- Always wear your safety belt

The Illinois semi truck accident attorneys at Levin & Perconti encourage readers to recognize unsafe driving practices and operate their vehicle with the utmost standard of care. Even a minor driver error can often prove fatal on our busy Illinois roadways. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident as a result of a negligent driving error, please contact our experienced Chicago accident attorneys to see what legal rights and representation may be available to you.

Coal City, Illinois, recently amended their city’s code pertaining to large commercial vehicles operating or parking within the area. According to an article recently published by CoalCityCourant.com, Coal city’s Planning and Zoning Board amended the city’s definition of commercial vehicle, as well as, prohibited certain vehicles from operation within the district. After immense feedback from Coal City residents within the past year, the new district ordinance defines commercial vehicles as: buses, buses used as recreational vehicles, tractors, semi-trailers, motorized farm vehicles and earth-moving equipment, in addition to, any commercial trucks or vans with license plates that exceed the legal limits of class D plate as provided within the Illinois Vehicle Code. The ordinance requires that each and every type of vehicle defined as “commercial vehicle” be properly maintained.

The new amended code also details a strict new implemented policy as requested by town residents. Much of the feedback the town received dealt with the issue of parking and storage of recreational vehicles. In order to give more of a definition to existing codes which will ultimately lead to better law enforcement of city codes, the new ordinance: restricts parking of commercial vehicles unless the vehicle is parked in a fully enclosed building or structure and only one type of these vehicles can be parked on a residential lot or parcel of land. In addition, if a commercial vehicle is parked on a residential lot, the vehicle must be on an interior side or rear yard. The amended code prohibits any of the previously mentioned types of vehicles be used for living or sleeping purposes.

Our Illinois truck accident attorneys know first-hand that when steps are taken to improve traffic safety laws pertaining to large commercial vehicles, it can have a significant impact on preventing the hundreds of Illinois semi truck accidents that occur every year. When commercial vehicles are properly regulated at the state and local level, it continues to encourage semi truck drivers to operate their vehicle with the utmost standard of care. With over 900 Illinois residents losing their lives in motor vehicle accidents in 2009 – according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – rules and regulations must continue to be properly enforced.

Every year, our Chicago semi truck accident lawyers fight for the legal rights of those who have endured serious harm as the result of a negligent driving accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident at the hands of a careless driving and sustained a serious injury as a result, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. In the event that the negligent driving accident caused a fatality, you may be able to file suit against the driver for wrongful death. Please contact a Chicago personal injury lawyer to see what legal rights may be available to you.

Our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys recently read a report on WQAD.com detailing an area semi truck accident that ensued on Interstate 74 and Route 81. The accident transpired when a semi truck driver, transporting a cargo of cattle, fell asleep behind the wheel of his vehicle. The driver lost control of his vehicle causing the subsequent overturn of his tractor-trailer – expelling over 30 cattle onto the roadway. The overturned semi truck and loose cattle caused an additional two collisions with oncoming passenger vehicles. Fortunately, the drivers involved in this accident sustained minor injuries and the cattle remained unharmed. The accident currently remains under investigation and the driver of the commercial vehicle has received two citations for his role in the Illinois semi truck accident.

Our posts frequently discuss the devastating harm that results from the improper operation of large commercial vehicles. Driver fatigue has consistently proved to be one of the most common, as well as, one of the most dangerous driving errors committed by drivers of large tractor-trailers. According to the Large Truck Causation Study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, over 13 percent of commercial motor vehicle drivers were considered to be fatigued at the time of their crashes. Fatigue is a common result of physical or mental exertion that can significantly impair a driver’s performance. A number of factors can lend to driver fatigue including: lack of quality sleep, increased work hours, as well as, demanding driving hours.

To prevent the hundreds of accidents that occur each year due to driver fatigue, the FMSCA recommends that commercial vehicle drivers always:
- Get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Take nap or rest when needed
- Avoid medication that induces drowsiness
- Recognize signals and dangers of drowsy driving

When any type of driver error plays a role in a semi truck collision, the harm sustained by accident victims is often life changing. Our Chicago truck accident lawyers recently obtained a $6.5 million settlement on behalf of an Illinois family who sustained severe harm in a commercial vehicle accident caused by a negligent semi truck driver. The driver of the semi truck was found to be operating an overloaded trailer, as well as, under the influence of marijuana when he collided into a passenger vehicle killing a 32-year-old woman and severely injuring her husband and son.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois personal injury attorney for a free consultation to see what legal rights may be available to you.

In early August, our Illinois semi truck accident blog reported a fatal multi-vehicle collision in Buffalo Grove. The accident, which occurred south of Kirchoff Road on Route 53, ensued when the 23-year-old driver of a passenger vehicle struck a tractor-trailer and in turn collided with the driver of a disabled roadside pickup truck. An investigation into the accident concluded that the driver of the passenger vehicle was using her cell phone at the time of the collision that ultimately caused the death of the disabled vehicle driver. At the time, the woman faced charges of improper lane change, driving on the shoulder of the road, in addition to, using an electronic device while driving.

In an article recently published by the Daily Herald, it was reported that the Cook County State’s Attorney has decided to dismiss the charges against the 23-year-old to allow Illinois State Police to further investigate if more serious charges will be filed in this case. The woman admitted to authorities in the police report that she was scrolling down her cell phone contact list when she collided with the semi truck. The family of the deceased has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the 23-year-old and is seeking at least $50,000 in damages.

An Illinois wrongful death lawsuit can be filed on the basis that the wrongful or negligent conduct of an individual caused the premature death of another. In this case, the passenger vehicle driver may be held liable for wrongful death on the grounds that she operated her vehicle in a negligent way – through the use of her cell phone – which ultimately caused the fatal accident. Wrongful death lawsuits vary from personal injury claims due to the fact that the family of the deceased brings about the cause of action. In order to bring about this type of claim, a strict statute of limitations must be adhered to in order proceed with civil litigation. In the state of Illinois, depending on the type of accident, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is 2 years.

If you have been involved in any type of motor vehicle accident, or have lost a loved one at the hands of a negligent driver, it is important obtain legal guidance from an experienced Chicago accident attorney. Having represented hundreds of victims of negligence, our attorneys share comprehensive knowledge when handling these types of devastating, as well as, life-altering accidents. Please contact an Illinois personal injury lawyer to see what legal relief and representation may be available to you.

A semi truck accident involving two commercial vehicles transpired earlier this morning in Morton, Illinois – according to MortonTimesNews.com. According to Illinois State Police, at around 4:20 this morning a semi truck was traveling westbound along Interstate 74 when the 63-year-old commercial vehicle driver lost control of his vehicle. A second semi truck traveling behind the truck was unable to avoid the vehicle and caused a subsequent collision. The collision caused the first semi truck to overturn causing the truck’s cargo of frozen chocolate cake and cinnamon rolls to spill onto the interstate. Both drivers were transported to a local hospital where they were treated for non-life threatening injuries. The Illinois semi truck accident caused traffic to be rerouted for several hours while road crews cleaned up the spilled cargo. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers know that semi truck accidents occur each day on our roadways due to a number of factors. Although drivers of large commercial vehicles are specially trained to operate 80,000 pound vehicles and transport them thousands of miles, one wrong move could prove fatal for the driver, as well as, surrounding vehicle drivers. Some of the most common factors contributing to a semi truck accident include:
- Unsafe Operation: General poor driving, excessive speed, cell phone use
- Driver Impairment: Operating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Driver Fatigue: A sleepy driver is just as dangerous as a drunk driver
- Unsecured Loads: A truck’s cargo may come loose during travel and expel off vehicle
- Un-Maintained Vehicles: a defective vehicle or part poses an extreme roadway threat

When any of the above mentioned factors contributes to a semi truck collision, accident victims may seek legal relief for damages incurred. Given the fact that these types of accidents tend to be more severe and life-altering than most types of motor vehicle accidents, it is important to obtain an experienced Chicago semi truck accident attorney to help handle your claim. Our attorneys have expertly handled a number of personal injury and wrongful death claims and ensure that our clients are properly compensated for their devastating injuries and losses. Accident victims may obtain compensation for various damages including: loss of wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, in addition to, punitive damages that aim to punish the wrongdoer’s negligent behavior.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois personal injury attorney to help evaluate your case.

The State Police of District 16 in Illinois released earlier this week a summary of their September 2011 monthly statistics for law enforcement activity. In an article published by Journal Standard.com, it was reported that District 16, which serves Boone, Winnebago, Stephenson, and Jo Daviess counties, handled over 1,433 incidents during the month of September. Of those 1,433 incidents, over 1,355 involved troopers on field patrol. Overall, Illinois State Troopers issued 366 citations for drivers violating speed laws, 97 seat belt violations, as well as, 22 arrests made for driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, troopers inspected over 103 Illinois semi trucks to determine if federal compliance standards were being met in accordance with regulations mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. After a thorough investigation of large commercial vehicles, 31 were placed out of service due to driver or vehicle violations.

In 2010, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance released updated Out-of-Service Criteria for placing commercial vehicles out-of-service during roadside vehicle inspections. Serious violations are defined as those that render a commercial vehicle or commercial vehicle driver an immediate threat to the general public. A vehicle or driver will be placed out of service until the issues are remedied or repaired. The following contains several criteria which may render a vehicle or driver out-of-service:

Defective Breaks: a vehicle will be placed out of service if 20% or more of its service breaks has one of the following defects
- Any steering axle brake defect
- Won’t actuate effectively or friction material won’t contact drum/rotor.
- Audible air leak at chamber.
- Missing brake on any axle required to have brakes.
Brake smoke/fire
- Brake malfunction causing smoke or fire to emit from wheel end, not including overheating due to severe brake use.
Fuel Systems
- Dripping leak anywhere, including reefer/heater fuel system.
- Fuel tank loose due to broken or missing bolts and/or brackets.
Securement of Cargo
- Cargo that is likely to roll is not restrained by chocks, wedges, cradle or other equivalent means
- Articles secured by transverse tiedowns are not in direct contact with one another and are not prevented from shifting while in transit.

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers commend the efforts of our state police department to help make our roadways a safer place to travel. Strict commercial vehicle regulations are enacted to help prevent the thousands of semi truck accidents that occur each year. It is important to not only have these regulations put in place, but to have law enforcement rigorously enforce these rules and regulations. When commercial vehicle violations are identified, it helps put the focus back on maintaining the utmost vehicle safety, as well as, saving lives.

Our Cook County truck accident lawyers read an article on KMOV.com earlier today detailing a fatal Illinois semi truck accident. At around 6:35 this morning, a semi tractor-trailer was entering the Connoco Phillips Refinery in Hartford, Illinois, when an oncoming pickup truck collided into the semi’s trailer. The driver of the pickup truck was transported to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. As of press time, it is unknown if the driver of the commercial vehicle sustained any injuries. An investigation into the accident is currently underway and an autopsy, as well as, a toxicology test is scheduled on the pickup truck driver to determine the exact cause of death.

Unsafe driving habits exhibited by passenger vehicle drivers has become an increasing cause of semi truck accidents resulting in injury and/or death. Given that fact that large commercial vehicles operate in a completely different manner than smaller motor vehicles, many motorists are unawares of a semi truck’s performance capabilities. The performance capabilities of large commercial vehicles range from variability in acceleration, breaking, in addition to, visibility.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recently compiled a report titled “The Unsafe Driving Acts of Motorists in the Vicinity of Large Trucks” with identifies many common unsafe driving acts exhibited by motorists that contribute to collisions with large commercial vehicles. Some of the most frequent crash factors exhibited by drivers of passenger vehicles which contributed directly to a fatal collision with a semi truck included:

- Running off the Road/Lane
- Failure to Yield Right of Way
- Unsafe Speed
- Driving Inattentively
- Failure to Obey Traffic Devices
- Erratic/Reckless Driving

To help inhibit the increasing epidemic that is resulting from passenger vehicle and semi truck collisions, the study recommends that motorists should be educated in driving behaviors that may ultimately lead to collisions with commercial vehicles. One suggestion made by the study is to begin educating drivers during driver training of safe way to share the roadways with semi trucks.

Any type of collision with a large commercial vehicle can have a devastating impact on the life of you or a loved one. With over 10,343 crashes involving tractor-trailers occurring in Illinois in 2010, safe driving habits must always be exercised in order to avoid the hundreds of injuries and fatalities that result from Illinois semi truck accidents each year. Our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys always recommend that drivers of all types of vehicles adhere to the following safety tips:

- Never Drive Impaired
- Adhere to Posted Speed Limits
- Avoid Distractions (Cell Phones, Texting)
- Never Drive Fatigued
- Always Wear Safety Belt
- Operate Vehicle Carefully During Adverse Weather
- Practice Defensive Driving
- Maintain Vehicle Maintenance

If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois personal injury lawyer to see what legal rights and representation may be available to you.

A 55-year-old semi truck driver is currently facing numerous criminal charges for his role in a destructive semi truck accident which resulted in four individuals requiring medical treatment. According to local law enforcement, the semi truck driver will be charged within the upcoming week for causing a series of accidents due to what police have deemed as a severe case of road rage. Although the accident continues to remain under investigation, it was reported on CJOnline.com that the driver of the 18-wheel tractor-trailer intentionally forced vehicles off the roadways and collided with several vehicles. The driver was immediately arrested in connection with attempted murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and criminal damage to property.

When an 80,000 pound vehicle is operated in a careless or reckless manner, it poses a significant threat to drivers in surrounding vehicles. The consequences that may result from a negligent semi truck accident are severe and life-altering. There are many dangerous driving behaviors that may be exhibited by a reckless driver, those actions may include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Disregarding traffic safety signals
- Making sudden lane changes or cutting other vehicles off
- Aggressive Driving

When a semi truck accident occurs as a result of one of the previously mentioned dangerous driving behaviors, the driver, as well as, their trucking carrier may be found legally liable for their role in the negligent accident. Trucking companies may be found liable for their failure to properly monitor their drivers or violations of relevant trucking laws and regulations.

Our truck accident attorneys in Chicago share comprehensive knowledge when handling any and all types of motor vehicles accidents. Victims of these types of devastating accidents may be able to seek legal relief from the damages they have incurred as a direct result of another’s negligence and carelessness. These damages include: cost of medical expenses, loss of wages, in addition to, physical and emotional pain. Those who knowingly commit negligent acts should be held legally responsible for the various harms they inflict. If you have been injured in a semi truck accident, or have lost a loved one at the hands of a negligent semi truck driver, please contact a Chicago truck accident lawyer for a free consultation to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

The United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recently participated in a coordinated effort to administer unannounced safety inspection detail on numerous commercial vehicles. A report published by MohaveDailyNews.com detailed the inspection of over 237 commercial vehicles that resulted in over 470 observed violations. The inspection, conducted primarily on passenger-carrying vehicles such as tour buses, uncovered that drivers were found to be operating without mandated log books, without possession of medical certificates, in addition to, failure to have appropriate vehicle registration.

Additionally, it was discovered that the vehicles of the previously mentioned drivers failed to have the required safety equipment, as well as, the mandated company information on the vehicles. These drivers have been placed out of services for the various citations they have received, all of which are deemed criminal violations. With commercial tour operators continuously committing various violations many of which involving hours of service, the risk of driver fatigue and potential accidents has substantially increased. This investigation is only one of many that will continue to be conducted by the United States Department of Transportation.

When large commercial vehicles fail to adhere to federal and state safety regulations, the results can often turn tragic. Drivers and their carriers have a responsibility to maintain safe operation in order to avoid potentially hazardous accidents. When safety regulations are violated and an accident ensues, the truck driver as well as their trucking company may be subject to a civil lawsuit for their negligent actions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration identifies the primary types of commercial vehicle carrier safety violations:

- Hours of Service: Drivers operating in excess of the regulated hours of service
- Unqualified Driver/Drugs and Alcohol: Drivers who have not been medically examined and certified or operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Unsafe Equipment: Poor vehicle maintenance and/or improperly secured loads
- Motorist Complaints: motorist reporting the unsafe driving or commercial trucks or buses

The experienced Chicago semi truck accident lawyers at Levin & Perconti have extensively handled a variety of cases involving driver negligence. Our attorneys recently recovered a $6.5 million settlement on behalf of a family who was involved in a devastating Illinois semi truck accident. The driver of the commercial vehicle was found to be under the influence of marijuana, as well as, operating an overloaded trailer when he collided with a passenger vehicle -- resulting in the death of 32-year-old woman. In addition to driver negligence, the lawsuit also alleged that the trucking carrier violated federal regulations by failing to properly drug screen their drivers.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Illinois semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois truck accident attorney to seek what legal rights and representation may be available to you.

WHTC.com recently reported a distracted semi truck accident that resulted in two drivers sustaining multiple injuries. According to authorities, the semi truck driver disclosed that he briefly took his eyes off the road while driving to obtain an item he had dropped prior to colliding into a pickup truck traveling ahead of the commercial vehicle. The initial collision also caused a subsequent accident with the vehicle in front of the pickup truck. Both the drivers of the semi truck and pickup truck sustained various broken bones and were transported to a local hospital. The occupants of the other vehicle sustained no injuries in the collision. An investigation into the accident is currently being conducted and the semi truck driver has received a citation.

Our Illinois semi truck accident posts frequently discuss the various harms that result from collisions caused by distracted semi truck drivers. In 2009, over 5,400 people were killed on roadways in the United States and approximately 448,000 were injured in motor vehicle accidents that were reported to have involved distracted driving – according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Research continuously shows that distracted driving is one type of driver error that is a predominant contributing factor in commercial vehicle accidents. The NHTSA recently conducted a study to determine driver distraction in commercial vehicle operations. After conducting extensive research, the NHTSA issued various recommendations to address the increasingly prevalent issue of distracted commercial vehicle drivers. Those recommendations include:

- Drivers should never text while driving
- If a call must be made, drivers should exit the roadways to a safe location
- Drivers should refrain from using dispatching devices during travel
- Drivers should not read, write, or look at maps while driving.
- Fleet safety managers should educate drivers and discuss the importance of attentive driving and refraining from distracting tasks or behaviors during vehicle operation

Our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys continue to advocate the dangers of distracted driving and encourage drivers to remain attentive during travel. This holds especially true for drivers of large commercial vehicles. A few seconds of inattention while transporting an 80,000 pound vehicle is all it takes to cause a serious accident resulting in injury or even death. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Illinois semi truck accident due to distracted driving, please contact an Illinois truck accident lawyer to see what legal rights may be available to you.

An Illinois semi truck accident claimed the life of a 76-year-old McHenry County woman earlier this week. In a report published by the Courier-News, the accident resulted when the passenger vehicle the woman was driving drove into the path of an oncoming semi tractor-trailer. The accident occurred at the dangerous Hampshire intersection of Route 20 and Big Timber Road. The accident caused Route 20 to be closed for several hours while accident an reconstructionist and Illinois trucking officials conducted an investigation into the fatal accident. Local authorities and eye-witnesses at the scene stated that the truck driver never had a chance to stop in time to avoid collision and will not face charges.

The dangerous intersection of Route 20 and Big Timber Road has proven to be a recurring source of motor vehicle collisions within the past several years. Just three years ago a collision at the crossing resulted in injury of four teenagers. According to authorities, the last three accidents at the intersection all involved semi trucks. Illinois and Kane County officials have continued to express concern about the lack of visibility at the dangerous intersection due to the curve on Route 20. The Illinois Department of Transportation has recently recommended the concept of developing the intersection into a roundabout that would require drivers to substantially reduce speed.

Intersections have proven to be a consistent location of devastating accidents often resulting injuries and fatalities. 40% of all motor vehicle fatalities in the United States each year involve drivers who: fail to yield the right-of-way at an intersection, drive through a stop sign, or run a red light, according to the Driving Institute of America. To avoid dangerous intersection accidents, drivers of all types of vehicles should anticipate the hazards associated with crossings and know how to safely and properly avoid them. SafetyInfo.com provides helpful driving tips to avoid these potentially fatal collisions:

- Approach intersections with caution. Be alert that cross traffic may not adhere to traffic signals.
- When crossing an uncontrolled intersection, allow enough time to clear the entire roadway without interfering with oncoming traffic.
- Exercise extreme caution at uncontrolled intersections where large vehicles are traveling.

Our Illinois semi truck accident lawyers continue to encourage drivers to exercise safe driving habits each time a vehicle is operated. Many accidents can be avoided when drivers stay attentive and adhere to traffic safety laws. Unfortunately, countless accident result each day from drivers who operate in a careless and negligent manner. If your or a loved one has been injured as a result of driver negligence, please contact an experienced Chicago personal injury attorney to seek what legal rights may be available to you.

Earlier today, our Illinois semi truck accident lawyers read a report posted on TruckingInfo.com detailing a newly proposed study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Through this study, the FMCSA aims to investigate the various characteristics of individual commercial vehicle drivers that may be a potential factor in semi truck accidents. On October 3, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration published an Information Collection Request to the Federal Register for a study to identify, verify, quantify, as well as, prioritize commercial driver risk factors.

The three part survey, titled “Commercial Driver Individual Differences Study," will help determine risk factors by connection similar characteristics exhibited by individual drivers, their driving records, and Department of Transportation reportable crashes. The study will also look at various personal factors including: demographic characteristics, medical conditions, personality traits, performance capabilities, in addition to, work environmental factors. In a statement made by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the information gathered in this study will be used to develop future safety initiatives for large commercial vehicles.

Our truck accident attorneys in Chicago applaud the efforts made by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to help determine the various underlying causes of semi truck accidents. Any initiative established to help make our roadways a safer place to travel will help prevent the thousands of injuries and fatalities that occur each year from collisions with large commercial vehicles. In a previously conducted study by the FMCSA, it was reported that there was over 286,000 accidents in 2009 involving large commercial vehicles in the United States. Of those accidents, over 2,900 resulted in at least one fatality while 51,000 resulted in at least one non-fatal injury.

Our Chicago truck accident attorneys have provided experienced legal representation to those who have sustained harm as the result of a semi truck accident. Recently, we obtained a $6.5 million settlement on behalf of an Illinois family who sustained severe damages as the result of a negligent semi truck driver. Through an extensive investigation, it was found that the truck driver was operating under the influence of marijuana, as well as, operating an overloaded trailer. The devastating accident caused the death of a 32-year-old woman and substantial injury to her husband and son and resulted in a record Kane County $4.7 million wrongful death settlement.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an Illinois semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois truck accident lawyer. Our knowledgeable attorneys will provide a free initial consultation to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

Our Illinois semi truck accident attorneys recently read a report on the MadisonCountyRecord.com detailing a newly filed lawsuit against a semi truck driver for his role in a fatal semi truck accident that caused the death of a pedestrian. The accident occurred in late August when the victim was walking west on Chain of Rocks Road in Chouteau Township when she was struck by an oncoming commercial vehicle. As a result of the accident, the victim sustained severe internal bleeding and punctures to both of her lungs. The injuries the victim incurred unfortunately lead to her untimely death shortly after --leaving behind her two minor children.

A relative of the victim has filed a lawsuit against both the truck driver, as well as, his trucking company for their role in the fatal Illinois semi truck accident. The six count complaint filed on September 22 in the Madison County Circuit Court alleges that: the semi truck driver negligently failed to control and stop his truck to avoid the collision, failed to sound his horn to warn of his approach, failure to keep a proper lookout for pedestrians, in addition to, operating his vehicle at an excessive speed.

The complaint also includes the driver’s trucking company alleging that the company: failed to provide the defendant with adequate equipment, failure to equip the truck with adequate warning devices, failure to prevent the defendant from driving his vehicle too quickly, failure to install proper traffic signals to warn pedestrians of the truck’s approach, as well as, failure to install proper devices to control the defendant’s actions. Additionally, the suit alleges that the trucking company was negligent in hiring the defendant and failing to properly train employees to ensure the safety of others.

When a devastating collision, such as this one, occurs the results can be life-altering for the victim and their families. In this case, the victim endured severe pain and suffering, loss of earnings, medical expenses, sustainment of a physical disability, as well as, loss of life enjoyment leading up to her premature death. When this type of severe harm is sustained, civil litigation can help victims and their families receive compensation, in addition to, punish the wrongdoer for their negligent behavior. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Illinois semi truck accident, please contact a Chicago truck accident lawyer to see what legal rights may be available to you.

Earlier today, our Illinois semi truck accident attorneys read a report on BakerCountyPress.com detailing a fatal collision between a semi truck and a pedestrian. The 41-year-old victim attempted to cross a busy county roadway when he was struck by an oncoming Freightliner truck. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Charges against the semi truck driver are pending further investigation into the accident – including the toxicology results of the victim. This accident is the second pedestrian accident in the area within the past week. The other accident involved a hit-and-run accident involving a truck and a 14-year-old young girl who sustained minor injuries.

In recent years, collisions between large commercial vehicles and pedestrians have become increasingly common. In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted a study to evaluate pedestrian traffic safety. The study found that in 2009 over 4,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States and an estimated 59,000 were injured. On average, it was determined that a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every nine minutes in traffic related collisions. A similar study was conducted in 2007 by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It was determined that over 265 pedestrian fatalities resulted from collisions with large commercial vehicles while over 101,000 injuries were sustained.

Every year, our Chicago truck accident lawyers handle a variety of cases involving motor vehicle accidents and pedestrians and have obtained successful verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. Recently, we obtained a $1.25 million settlement on behalf of a 50-year-old woman who was struck by a bus while crossing a Chicago crosswalk. The woman suffered multiple injuries including public, rib, and spinal fractures as a result of the accident. The driver of the vehicle ultimately pled guilty for failure to exercise due care and striking a pedestrian.

Any collision involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian can be severe and life-altering. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to obtain legal aid from experienced truck accident attorneys in Chicago. Our attorneys ensure that our clients are properly compensated for their devastating injuries and losses. If you or a loved one has sustained severe harm, or even death, as the result of a semi truck accident you may be able to seek compensation for damages incurred. Please contact an Illinois truck accident attorney to see what legal rights may be available to you.

Earlier today, our Chicago semi truck accident attorneys read a report on 9news.com detailing a destructive semi truck accident that resulted in the collision of 11 vehicles. Authorities states that a semi truck was traveling along an interstate highway when the truck’s cargo of organic soil began leaking from the trailer. Although the soil is not considered a hazardous material, it did cause the roadways to become unmanageably slick – resulting in numerous collisions. Seven individuals involved in the collisions were transported to a local hospital for sustained injuries. Authorities have been unable to trace the semi truck that caused the leak and asserted that the trucking company and the driver may face charges for the spilled load.

An improperly secured commercial vehicle load can often prove disastrous for surrounding vehicles and our roadways. According to the Driver’s Handbook created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, cargo being transported on highways must remain secured on or within the transporting vehicle. Cargo must always remain secured so that it will not: leak, spill, expel off vehicle, and/or shift. An improperly secured load can consequently cause severe devastation such as: loss of load, damage to cargo or vehicle, accidents, fines and citations, and often times death.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recently released a study which detailed the risks associated with the transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous materials by commercial vehicles. The study found that in semi truck accidents caused by non-hazardous material, such as organic soil, result in over 125,000 accidents each year. Of the 125,000 non-hazardous material accidents, it was reported that over 109,000 accidents resulted in injuries while 5,000 resulted in fatalities. Additionally, cargo spills account for over 2,500 accidents each year.

Our Illinois truck accident lawyers recognize the immediate threat that often results from an accident caused by the contents of a commercial vehicle. Many times, even if extreme caution is exercised by the drivers of passenger vehicles around large commercial vehicles – an improperly secured load can cause severe and life-threatening damages. If you or a loved one has sustained harm or even death as a result of an improperly secured truck load, you may be able to seek compensation for damages incurred. Please contact a truck accident attorney in Chicago for a free consultation to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

Recently, our Illinois truck accident lawyers read a report in the Chicago Tribune detailing a recent Illinois semi truck accident that resulted in the death of an Illinois Department of Transportation employee. Authorities in Will County stated the accident occurred when the construction worker exited a piece of heavy equipment he was operating. The 28-year-old was subsequently struck by a semi tractor truck with a dump trailer that was backing up in the construction zone. State police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the accident and have issued a citation to the semi truck driver for improper backing.

Construction zones often provide some of the most dangerous breeding grounds for semi truck collisions. Although in this accident the driver of the commercial vehicle received a citation for the improper backing of his semi truck, a citation does not compensate for the devastating loss the victim’s family has sustained. While this news report does not confirm if the victim’s family wishes to seek civil legal action against the semi truck driver, through our experience as Chicago semi truck accident attorneys, that family may have a cause of action for a wrongful death lawsuit.

A wrongful death lawsuit contends that the victim died as a direct result of a negligent or unjust action. In this case, the semi truck driver’s improper handling of his commercial vehicle was a direct cause of the victim’s fatality. Under current Illinois statute, a number of factors must be proven into order to file a wrongful death lawsuit:
- A fatality was directly caused by a wrongful act – negligent or through inaction
- The negligent or default act would have entitle the party injured to maintain a cause of action
- Monetary damages have resulted from premature death

A wrongful death lawsuit is substantially different than other types of personal injury claims due to the fact that the victim’s family brings the cause of action. It is important in these types of cases to obtain the legal guidance from an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer. Through civil litigation, our attorney help compensate accident victims and their families for the harm they have sustained as a result of motor vehicle accidents. If you have been involved in a Chicago semi truck accident, please contact our attorneys for a free consultation to help determine what legal rights may be available to you.

Recently, our Illinois semi truck accident lawyers read an article on Kens5.com detailing a semi truck accident victim’s account of the deadly accident that took the life of her husband. The accident, which occurred in May of 2010, transpired when the women and her husband were traveling along an interstate highway when they had come to a stop in a construction zone. The semi truck traveling behind the couple failed to notice the reduced speed and slammed into the back of their vehicle while traveling at a speed of 65 mph. The woman’s husband suffered severe brain injury as a result of the accident and died a few days later.

During the accident investigation process, it was discovered that the driver of the commercial vehicle had been diagnosed with severe sleep apnea two months prior to the fatal collision. Given the increasing epidemic of semi truck drivers with sleep apnea, in addition to, the shocking statistics of accidents caused by truck driver sleep apnea, the accident victim’s widow created a foundation to help garner nationwide attention towards this prevalent issue. The mission of the foundation is to “promote and/or improve public awareness of the sleep apnea problem in the commercial motor vehicle industry.” The foundation’s overall goal is to ensure the future safety of our roadways, as well as, encourage the trucking industry to establish and administer programs that identifies and treats sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is defined as a disorder in which an individual exhibits one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep – according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. This chronic condition significantly disrupts the sufferer’s sleep and causes poor sleep quality. One of the most substantial side effects of the disorder is ongoing daytime fatigue. When the driver of an 80,000 pound commercial vehicle is diagnosed with this condition, it can pose a significant threat to safe operation. According to a study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, up to 28% of all licensed commercial vehicle drivers have sleep apnea.

Our truck accident attorneys in Chicago encourage trucking companies and their drivers to help prevent, as well as, decrease the increasing epidemic of semi truck accidents caused by driver sleep apnea. When the unsafe operation of a large commercial vehicle causes a fatal accident, such as this one, victims may be able to obtain legal relief. If you or a loved one has been involved in an Illinois semi truck accident, please contact an Illinois truck accident attorney to see what legal rights may be available to you.