Interstate 55 (I-55) is a major thoroughfare that runs through Joliet and Will County, Illinois, connecting the area to Chicago and beyond. With heavy traffic and a significant number of commercial trucks, accidents involving semi-trucks and other large vehicles are not uncommon. If you find yourself involved in a trucking accident on this busy highway, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your health, safety, and legal rights.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident
In the aftermath of a trucking accident, your priority should be ensuring your safety and the safety of others. Follow these steps:
- Move to a safe location, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away.
- From a safe place, document the scene by taking photos and videos of the vehicles, injuries, and surroundings. Collect contact information from witnesses who may have seen the accident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. A thorough evaluation can identify hidden injuries and provide documentation for your legal claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
After the accident, you will need to report the incident to your insurance provider. However, be cautious when interacting with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Remember:
- Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or apologizing for the accident.
- Do not sign any documents or accept a settlement offer without going through a free consultation with a trucking accident attorney.
- Refrain from giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster, as it may be used against you later.
- Remember, the trucking company’s insurance adjuster and company is only looking out for themselves, not for your best interest.
Investigating the Trucking Accident
Trucking accidents on I-55 can be caused by various factors, such as:
- Driver fatigue or distraction
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Improperly loaded or secured cargo
- Inadequate truck maintenance
- Defective vehicle parts
To determine the cause of the accident and establish liability, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation. This may involve:
- Reviewing police reports and accident scene evidence
- Analyzing data from the truck’s black box (electronic logging device)
- Examining the driver’s logbooks and employment records
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts and other specialists
Pursuing Legal Action
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident on I-55 near Joliet, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. To pursue legal action:
- Consult with an experienced trucking accident attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and has a proven track record of success in Will County and the surrounding areas.
- Your attorney will help you file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the liable parties, which may include the truck driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer.
- Be aware of the statute of limitations for trucking accident cases in Illinois, which is generally two years from the date of the accident.
- Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies and fight to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Block Law Can Assist
At Block Law, we have extensive experience representing victims of trucking accidents in Joliet, Will County, County and throughout Illinois. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges of these cases and are committed to helping our clients seek the justice and compensation they deserve.
When you choose Block Law, you benefit from:
- Our in-depth knowledge of state and federal trucking regulations
- Our resources to thoroughly investigate your accident and build a strong case
- Our network of experts who can testify on your behalf
- Our proven track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients
A trucking accident on I-55 or near Joliet can be a life-altering event, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. By following the steps outlined here and seeking the assistance of a skilled trucking accident attorney, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, contact Block Law today for a free consultation and let us fight for you.
