Aurora, IL Truck Accident Lawyers

Experienced Legal Help for Semi-Truck Accident Victims in Aurora, Illinois

As one of Illinois’ largest cities, Aurora has a complex network of highways and roadways that experience significant commercial truck traffic. Major roads like I-88, Route 30, Route 59, and Route 31 are frequently used by semi-trucks and other large vehicles transporting goods across the state. This high volume of truck traffic increases the risk of truck accidents, particularly in areas with heavy congestion and construction zones.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how serious and complex truck accidents can be. Our team of dedicated Aurora personal injury attorneys has over 90 years of combined experience helping injury victims here in Aurora and the surrounding areas seek justice after a crash. With offices conveniently located in Naperville and St. Charles, we are dedicated to holding negligent truckers and trucking companies accountable and securing the maximum compensation for our injured clients.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Aurora

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents can aid in prevention and in establishing liability. Some frequent causes include:

1. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often face tight deadlines, leading to long hours on the road. Despite Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations limiting driving hours, violations occur. Fatigue reduces reaction time and impairs judgment, increasing the likelihood of crashes.

2. Distracted Driving

Distractions such as texting, using GPS, eating, or adjusting controls can divert a driver’s attention. Any moment of a trucker’s inattention, especially at highway speeds, can result in serious accidents.

3. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks require longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. Speeding or reckless driving behaviors, particularly on icy or wet roads common in Illinois winters, pose significant risks.

4. Poor Truck Maintenance

Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and defective lighting can contribute to serious accidents.

5. Improper Loading

Cargo must be properly loaded and secured to prevent shifting during transport. Overloaded or unbalanced cargo can cause a truck to tip over or jackknife, creating hazardous situations.

6. Driving Under the Influence

Alcohol and drug use impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Truck drivers under the influence can cause catastrophic accidents, often leading to fatal injuries.

7. Bad Weather Conditions

Illinois experiences a range of weather conditions, from heavy snowfall to torrential rain. Trucks that fail to adjust for poor road conditions may skid, hydroplane, or lose control, endangering nearby drivers.

Common Injuries in Accidents with 18-Wheelers

Due to the size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles, injuries from truck accidents tend to be severe. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma can lead to lifelong cognitive issues, memory loss, and motor function impairment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, requiring long-term medical care.
• Broken Bones: The force of a truck collision can result in multiple fractures, some requiring surgery and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening conditions can occur.
• Burn Injuries: In cases where fuel spills ignite, victims may suffer severe burns requiring skin grafts and extensive treatment.

Liability in Truck Accidents

Determining liability in a truck accident case can be complex. Multiple parties may be held responsible, including:

1. Truck Driver

If the driver was speeding, distracted, fatigued, or driving under the influence, they may be found directly liable for the accident.

2. Trucking Company

Employers can be held responsible if they fail to enforce proper hiring practices, allow unsafe driving behaviors, or neglect vehicle maintenance.

3. Cargo Loaders

Improperly secured cargo that causes an accident may place liability on the shipping company or cargo loaders.

4. Truck Manufacturers

If a truck’s brakes, tires, or other components were defective and contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be held accountable.

Steps to Take After an Aurora Truck Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident here in Aurora, Illinois, taking the right steps immediately after the crash can protect your rights and help build a strong case:

1. Call 911: Report the accident to the Aurora police and request medical assistance for any injuries.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by a doctor ensures proper documentation.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
4. Collect Witness Information: Obtain names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the crash occur.
5. Obtain the Truck Driver’s Information: Record the driver’s name, employer, insurance details, DOT number, and license number.
6. Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid making statements to insurance adjusters that could be used against you later.
7. Consult an Experienced Aurora Truck Accident Attorney: An Aurora personal injury lawyer can help determine liability, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies.

Compensation for Aurora, IL Truck Accident Victims

Victims of truck accidents in Aurora may be entitled to compensation for damages such as:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing treatment costs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for emotional distress, PTSD, and diminished quality of life.
• Wrongful Death: Families who lose a loved one in a trucking accident may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Why You Need an Experienced Aurora Trucking Accident Attorney

Truck accident cases involve complex legal and insurance issues. Trucking companies and insurers often have aggressive legal teams working to minimize payouts. Hiring an experienced Aurora truck accident lawyer ensures that you have someone fighting for your rights and maximizing your compensation.

What an Aurora, IL Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to determine liability.
• Gather crucial evidence such as truck maintenance records, driver logs, and black box data.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement.
• Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Contact the Top-Rated Aurora, IL Truck Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Aurora, IL, our skilled legal team is here to help. At John J. Malm & Associates, we have extensive experience handling complex truck accident claims and fighting for the compensation victims deserve. Contact our acclaimed Aurora trucking accident attorneys today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice you deserve.