Champaign County Truck Accidents Lawyer
Truck accidents are some of the most devastating crashes on the roadways. Semi-trucks can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. When they collide with passenger vehicles, the outcome can be fatal.
Many motorists are unaware of how these huge trucks operate. Semi-trucks are hard to control and cannot stop quickly. Therefore, they are prone to accidents. Anyone involved in these crashes faces a high risk of catastrophic injuries and death.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, you need to act quickly. Trucking companies will work quickly to minimize or avoid their liability. You need someone on your side who will work aggressively to effectively handle your case and get you the compensation you deserve. A Champaign County truck accidents lawyer from Patel Law, PC can help.
Trucking Laws in Champaign County
Trucking companies are regulated by federal government agencies, namely the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). There are various regulations that truck drivers and companies must abide by, including the following:
- Hours of service regulations
- Regular truck maintenance and repair
- Routine vehicle inspections
- Weight and freight restrictions
- Health and safety laws
- Training requirements for drivers
Failure to adhere to FMCSA rules can cause serious accidents. Not only can these accidents injure and kill innocent people, but they can also result in hefty fines for the trucking company.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents may be caused by the truck driver or other influences, such as the following:
-
Intoxication. Many drivers operate their trucks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These substances affect judgment and reaction times, among other things. Plus, truck drivers are held to stricter standards. They can be charged with a DUI for a blood alcohol content above 0.04, rather than 0.08.
-
Fatigue. Under hours of service regulations, truck drivers have an 11-hour driving limit. However, not every driver or company follows this rule. Many are forced to drive even more in order to meet deadlines. This can lead to fatigue and falling asleep behind the wheel.
-
Distracted driving. All motorists can get distracted while behind the wheel, and truck drivers are no exception. Truck drivers spend many hours on the road and may use their phones and other devices to entertain themselves, which can cause them to lose focus of what’s on the roadway.
-
Poor maintenance. Semi-trucks travel hundreds of miles a day and require regular maintenance. Worn tires and brakes can lead to blowouts and serious accidents.
Contact Patel Law, PC Today
Truck accidents are serious events that can result in catastrophic injuries. If you have survived such a crash, you are likely dealing with long-term injuries and even permanent disabilities.
Get the help you need to pay for your injuries and other damages. A Champaign County truck accidents lawyer from Patel Law, PC can help. We have demonstrated that we possess the skills, experience, and resources to tackle these cases and help you obtain maximum recovery. Call (217) 384-1111 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.