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Chicago Truck Rollover Accident Lawyer

Larger commercial trucks have a much higher center of gravity, making them much more likely to roll in the event a collision occurs on the roadway. Unfortunately, rollover accidents can lead to significant injuries and property damage for those inside smaller vehicles, and even bystanders on and around the roadway. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, our team is here to help if you need a Chicago truck rollover accident lawyer. We know how to secure compensations after commercial truck collisions happen, and we want to get started on your claim today.

How Rollover Truck Accidents Happen in Chicago

Rollover truck accidents in Chicago can occur due to a variety of factors, many of which involve the unique challenges associated with operating large commercial vehicles. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Driver error. One of the main causes of larger truck rollovers is driver error. This can include speeding, distracted driving, or overcorrecting the steering wheel. When a truck driver takes a turn too quickly or abruptly changes direction, the vehicle’s high center of gravity increases the likelihood of a rollover.
  • Improperly loaded cargo. The way cargo gets put onto a truck can significantly impact its stability. If the load is unevenly distributed or not properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced. This is particularly dangerous when the truck makes sharp turns or sudden maneuvers, leading to a potential rollover.
  • Road conditions. Poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven pavement, or slippery surfaces, can contribute to truck rollovers. When a truck encounters these hazards, especially at highway speeds, the driver may lose control of the truck, resulting in a rollover. Chicago’s winter weather, with ice and snow on the roads, can further increase these risks.
  • Mechanical failures. Faulty brakes, tires that are past their prime, or other mechanical issues can compromise a truck’s ability to maintain stability. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent these types of failures, but when trucking companies neglect proper upkeep, the risk of a rollover increases significantly.
  • Fatigued driving. Truck drivers are often under pressure from employers to meet quick delivery schedules, which can lead to driving long hours without adequate rest. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and may struggle to control their vehicles, increasing the likelihood of a rollover accident.

Is Compensation Available for Victims of Rollover Truck Accidents?

Victims of truck rollover accidents in Chicago may be eligible to pursue compensation for the various injuries and losses they have endured. The types of compensation that might be available in these cases include several categories that address both the financial and psychological impact of the accident:

  • Medical expenses are a primary form of compensation due to the severe nature of injuries often sustained in rollover accidents. Such accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, internal bleeding, broken bones, and organ damage, among other serious conditions. Compensation can cover the immediate costs of emergency medical services, surgeries, hospitalizations, and rehabilitation. It is also important to consider future medical costs, as some injuries may require long-term care or ongoing treatments to manage pain or other complications.
  • Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity may also be significant in the aftermath of a rollover accident. If the injuries prevent the victim from returning to workplace duties either temporarily or permanently, they may be entitled to compensation for the income lost during their recovery period. Additionally, if the injuries result in a permanent disability that affects the victim’s ability to perform their job or any job in the future, they may also seek compensation for the reduction in their earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering compensation is intended to cover the more subjective, non-economic damages that arise from a truck rollover accident. Beyond the physical pain from injuries, victims often experience emotional distress and psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and mental anguish. This type of compensation recognizes the impact of these injuries on a victim’s overall quality of life.
  • Property damage is another area where victims can seek compensation. Rollover accidents often result in substantial damage to the vehicles involved, with many cars being completely totaled. Compensation can help with the costs associated with repairing or replacing the victim’s vehicle, as well as any personal property that was damaged or destroyed in the accident.

How Long Do You Have to File Your Claim?

In Illinois, the legal limitation for filing a personal injury claim after a truck rollover accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means that victims have two years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for their injuries and damages. However, there are exceptions to this rule that could either shorten or extend the filing deadline, depending on the specifics of the case. For example, if the rollover accident involved a government-owned truck, such as a municipal vehicle, the time frame for filing a claim might be shorter. On the other hand, if the victim was a minor at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be extended. It is crucial to consult with an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate time limits.

Contact Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck rollover accident in Chicago, the experienced attorneys at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC are here to help. We understand the complexities involved in these cases and will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your claim by visiting our website at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC or calling us at (312) 586-1700.