What to Do After a Truck Accident on Route 59 in Naperville, IL

Experiencing a truck accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming event, especially if the crash occurs on a busy road like Route 59 in Naperville. Route 59 is a major north-south artery in Naperville, accounting for nearly 15.9% of the city’s accidents. Roads that intersect with Route 59 are particularly hazardous, with drivers often finding them confusing and challenging to navigate due to the sheer amount of traffic volume on Route 59.

In the aftermath of a semi-truck accident, it’s crucial to take specific steps to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and facilitate a smoother recovery process. In this blog, our Naperville injury attorneys review the statistics on truck accidents in Naperville, and the steps you should take if you’ve been in a Naperville truck accident.

Naperville Truck Accident Statistics

Understanding the prevalence of truck accidents in the area underscores the importance of cautious driving and preparedness.

Frequency: In 2018, Naperville reported 52 truck-related accidents, with 13 resulting in personal injuries.
High-Risk Areas: According to the City of Naperville, Route 59 is particularly hazardous for crashes, accounting for nearly 15.9% of Naperville’s accidents.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Naperville

Some of the common causes of trucking crashes in Naperville include:

Speeding: Exceeding speed limits in the city reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, especially on main roads, such as Route 59.
Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting or using in-vehicle technologies divert attention from the road, leading to severe rear-end crashes.
Fatigue: Long driving hours for truckers can lead to driver fatigue, impairing judgment and reaction times, leading to truck accidents.

What to Do If You’ve Been Involved In a Truck Accident in Naperville

1. Ensure Immediate Safety

Move to a Safe Location: If possible and without causing further injury, move your vehicle to a safe area away from traffic to prevent additional collisions. Remain in your vehicle, if possible, to avoid getting hit by another car.
Activate Hazard Lights: Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident and reduce the risk of subsequent incidents.

2. Check for Injuries

Assess Yourself and Passengers: Examine yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent, it’s essential to be cautious, as some symptoms may manifest later.
Avoid Unnecessary Movement: If anyone is seriously injured, especially with potential neck or back injuries, avoid moving them unless there’s an imminent danger, such as a fire.

3. Contact the Naperville Police Department

Call 911: Report the accident to the Naperville Police Department, and provide them with your location, a description of the accident, and any known injuries.
Request Medical Assistance: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s advisable to have emergency personnel at the Naperville Fire Department assess everyone involved.

4. Document the Accident Scene

Gather Evidence: Collect evidence that will prove what happened in the crash. Evidence, such as photos, injury reports, clothing worn during the crash, documentation of property damage, police reports, and more can help you make the best case when filing your claim against the truck driver and trucking company.
Note Environmental Conditions: Record details about the weather, road conditions, lighting, and any other environmental factors that might have contributed to the accident.

5. Exchange Information with Other Parties

Obtain Necessary Details: Collect the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved. If there is a logo or DOT number on the truck that hit you, take pictures and records all numbers.
Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, request their names and contact information, as their accounts can be valuable during investigations.

6. File a Police Report

Provide an Accurate Statement: When law enforcement arrives, offer a clear and factual account of the incident. Ensure that all details are accurately recorded in the police report, as this document will be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal actions.

7. Seek Medical Attention

Undergo a Medical Examination: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present immediate symptoms. A thorough medical check-up can identify latent injuries and provide documentation linking them to the accident.
Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to the treatment plans and recommendations provided by healthcare professionals to ensure a full recovery.

8. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the Accident Promptly: Inform your car insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details and cooperate fully during the claims process.
Be Cautious in Your Statements: Stick to the facts when discussing the accident and avoid admitting fault, as this could impact your claim.

9. Consult with a Naperville Truck Accident Lawyer

Seek Legal Advice: Given the complexities often associated with truck accidents, it’s wise to consult with a Naperville attorney experienced in personal injury and truck accident cases. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue any compensation you may be entitled to.

10. Keep Detailed Records

Maintain Documentation: Keep a comprehensive file of all documents related to the accident, including medical records, repair estimates, correspondence with insurance companies, and any other pertinent information.
Track Expenses: Document all expenses incurred as a result of the accident, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages, to support your injury claim.

Preventative Measures for Naperville Truck Accidents

While accidents can happen unexpectedly, adopting safe driving practices can reduce the likelihood of future trucking incidents:

Adhere to Speed Limits: Route 59 has a speed limit of 40 miles per hour for much of its length, but drivers often exceed this limit. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as using cell phones, eating, or adjusting in-car systems while driving.
Maintain Safe Following Distances: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead to allow ample time for braking.
Be Cautious at Intersections: Exercise extra caution when approaching and crossing intersections, especially those known for higher accident rates, like Route 59.

Contact the Naperville Truck Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

Being involved in a truck accident on Route 59 in Naperville necessitates prompt and informed actions to ensure safety and protect your legal rights. By following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath of the accident more effectively and work towards a resolution that addresses your needs and circumstances.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Naperville truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. At John J. Malm & Associates, our Naperville personal injury attorneys serve clients here in Naperville and throughout Illinois, providing dedicated representation to victims of serious truck accidents. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights after a Naperville truck accident and fight for the compensation you deserve.