Reckless Driving in Trucking Collisions
Truck drivers have to exercise extreme caution behind the wheel – much more so than other motorists on the road. The trucks they drive are considerably larger and heavier than other vehicles, which means they’re more difficult to control and can exert a lot of force if they’re involved in a collision.
Unfortunately, reckless driving is an all-too-common cause of truck accidents nationwide.
What Counts as Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is more than mere negligence. Rather, it refers to aggressive, often intentional, behaviors that increase the likelihood of causing a collision.
In Illinois, the state defines reckless driving as operating “any vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”
Many times, reckless drivers suffer from road rage, which fuels their reckless behavior.
Reckless truck drivers are significantly more likely to lose control of their large commercial rigs, which can result in collisions with other vehicles or cause the truck to tip, roll over, or jackknife.
Some of the most common forms of reckless driving include:
- Speeding, especially in bad weather or adverse conditions
- Tailgating
- Changing lanes without checking the truck’s blind spots
- Passing illegally
- Operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Brake-checking other vehicles
- Driving beyond limits set by the FMCSA
- Texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distracting behaviors while driving
Truck drivers, by law, must have a firm understanding of applicable traffic laws and safety regulations. So, when a truck driver intentionally engages in this behavior, they understand the risks that they’re posing to themselves and others on the road.
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove a Truck Driver Was Reckless?
If a truck driver was reckless and caused a truck accident in which you were injured or suffered the wrongful death of someone you love, you’ll have the right to take legal action. However, to win your truck accident case, you’ll need evidence to prove the driver was reckless.
While the specific proof you’ll need will depend on the circumstances of your case, helpful evidence can include:
- Dash cam footage
- Video footage from red light cameras, surveillance cameras, or doorbell cameras
- Eyewitness statements and testimony
- Forensic evidence from the scene, including tire marks and property damage
- Truck black box recordings
- Police and accident reports
- Breath and blood test results
- Expert testimony
You shouldn’t have to figure out what evidence you’ll need or how to get it. That’s best left to experienced legal advocates.
Why Choose Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC After a Reckless Driving Truck Accident
You can count on Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC to take charge of your reckless driving truck accident case and help you get the financial justice you deserve.
Our Chicago truck accident lawyers will:
- Investigate your crash
- Gather key pieces of evidence
- Work with experts to prove that the truck driver was reckless
Then, we’ll use the full force of our law firm’s resources to hold them – and their trucking company – accountable.
We’ve helped clients win hundreds of millions in damages. Now, we’re ready to fight for your best interests, too. Call our law office in Chicago to discuss your reckless driving truck accident case for free today.