From the moment you’ve been hit by a commercial vehicle, your life might never be the same. Large trucks far outweigh passenger vehicles and the force of the impact could lead to broken bones, a traumatic brain injury or even a permanent disability. If you’re in this position, medical bills are likely piling up and legal action might be needed to secure the compensation you deserve to cover your medical expenses and lost wages, as well as the pain you’ve endured and the loss of enjoyment in your life. However, your legal options might vary greatly depending on the type of commercial vehicle involved in your accident.

Commercial vehicles can be divided into numerous categories. These vehicles are generally used to carry cargo and passengers and weigh at least 10,000 pounds. Types of commercial vehicles commonly involved in collisions on Illinois roads include:

• Semi trucks — Sometimes referred to as “tractor-trailers,” semi trucks are propelled by a small cab unit that pulls one or more trailers. These rigs frequently have 18 wheels and are subject to jackknife accidents where sudden braking or some other factor causes the vehicle to bend where the tractor is linked to the trailer. Often, these units are hired by large corporations to haul large amounts of cargo, so the company that owns or hired the rig might bear some legal responsibility for your truck accident.
• Box trucks — Large delivery services and many smaller businesses with significant hauling needs use box trucks to ferry cargo. These commercial vehicles are not as large as semi trucks, but can cause severe damage in a collision with a family car or truck. As box trucks frequently travel on tight city streets, careless operation and distracted driving presents a serious risk.
• Buses — Carrying passengers safely is a profound responsibility, and bus drivers in Illinois are required to earn an additional endorsement on top of a standard Commercial Driver’s License. However, even in a clear instance of driver negligence, collecting money through a lawsuit might be complicated. Many buses are operated by public authorities and special rules apply when bringing a claim against a government body.

Speaking with a seasoned Illinois truck accident lawyer is the first step toward enforcing your legal rights. Once you understand your options and what is required to obtain appropriate payment, you can make important decisions with confidence.

Skinner Law Firm, P.C. in Bridgeview seeks compensation for plaintiffs in personal injury and wrongful death claims arising out of truck accidents in the Chicago area. For a free consultation with a proven Illinois attorney, please call 312-635-6459 or contact us online.