Bloomington Truck Accident Attorney
Injured in a Semi-Truck Accident Caused by Negligence
Large trucks are vital to America’s economy, but when an accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating. Collisions involving 18-wheelers, big rigs, and commercial trucks often result in catastrophic injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Bloomington, IL, Haxel Law is here to help. As an experienced Bloomington truck accident lawyer, we fight to hold negligent parties accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can occur in many ways, each posing unique risks to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Some of the most common types of truck accidents in Bloomington and throughout Illinois include:
- Jackknife Accidents: When a truck’s trailer swings out and forms a 90-degree angle with the cab, often caused by sudden braking or slippery roads.
- Rear-End Collisions: Due to their massive size, trucks require a much longer stopping distance, increasing the risk of rear-end crashes.
- Underride Accidents: These catastrophic collisions happen when a smaller vehicle slides under a truck’s trailer.
- Rollover Accidents: Trucks can tip over when drivers lose control, take turns too sharply, or drive on uneven terrain.
- Wide Turn Accidents: Trucks require extra room to turn, which can trap nearby vehicles in a dangerous “squeeze.”
- Head-On Collisions: Often the most deadly, these crashes occur when a truck drifts into oncoming traffic.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Truck accidents rarely happen by chance. They are usually the result of negligence—either by the truck driver, the trucking company, or another third party. Some leading causes of big rig accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Despite federal regulations, truckers often drive long hours, leading to drowsy driving and slower reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, eating, or adjusting GPS systems can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Trucks traveling at high speeds are far more dangerous due to their size and stopping distance.
- Improper Loading: Overloaded or unevenly balanced cargo can cause trucks to tip or lose control.
- Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance or defective parts, such as brake or tire failures, can lead to accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Truck drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose an extreme danger to others on the road.
- Weather Conditions: Ice, snow, and rain increase stopping distances and can make large trucks difficult to control.
Common Big Rig Accident Injuries
Because of the size and weight difference between trucks and passenger vehicles, injuries sustained in these accidents are often severe. Victims may face long-term medical treatment, permanent disabilities, or even wrongful death. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns and lacerations
- Crush injuries and amputations
- Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These injuries can leave victims unable to work, facing overwhelming medical bills, and struggling to rebuild their lives.
Determining Liability
One of the most complex aspects of a truck accident claim is determining liability. Unlike car accidents, multiple parties may be responsible, including:
- Truck Drivers: If the driver was speeding, distracted, fatigued, or otherwise negligent.
- Trucking Companies: Employers may be liable if they pressured drivers to violate hours-of-service rules, failed to maintain trucks, or hired unqualified drivers.
- Cargo Loaders: If improperly loaded cargo contributed to the crash.
- Manufacturers: If a defective truck part, such as brakes or tires, caused the accident.
- Maintenance Providers: Companies responsible for maintaining trucks may be held accountable for poor inspections or repairs.
Our team can thoroughly investigate every case by examining driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and witness testimony to identify all responsible parties. This ensures we pursue maximum compensation from all available sources.
Contact us at (217) 215-4166 today for a free consultation with a trusted Bloomington truck accident lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Much Is My PI Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your claim can be complex. It can be easy to overlook many types of compensation available to you, especially without an in-depth understanding of Illinois law. Seeking legal representation is essential to identify liable parties and calculate the total damages in your claim.
While pinpointing the exact value of your claim requires a thorough case evaluation from our attorneys, you should know that you are entitled to compensation for all losses incurred in the accident, including future costs resulting from your injuries. Our firm can negotiate effectively on your behalf to pursue the full compensation available to you.
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How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Claim?
It depends. The timeframe for settling a personal injury claim will vary based on unique factors, such as whether the insurance company is willing to make a fair offer, any potential liability disputes, and whether your case goes to trial. Many claims are settled out of court, but others can take more time to resolve. However, taking longer to settle isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
While preparing for potential litigation may extend the duration of your case, it can also mean the difference between recovering maximum compensation and walking away with much less than you deserve. Our attorneys are familiar with insurance companies to pursue the fastest path to resolution without compromising the just settlement you need to focus on your recovery.
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Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster?After an accident, you should avoid discussing the incident with any insurance representative without your lawyer present. Having your attorney speak directly with the insurance adjuster on your behalf is typically best to protect your rights. If you do end up talking with the insurance adjuster, you only need to provide basic information, such as your name, address, and so on. Don’t share any information that may be used against you, such as apologizing or admitting fault.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims
If you have been injured in a truck accident in Bloomington, IL, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation and long-term care costs
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Our goal at Haxel Law is to make sure you receive the financial recovery needed to cover both your immediate and long-term needs.
Truck Accident FAQs
Here are several frequently asked questions about truck accident claims in Bloomington, IL:
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations generally allows you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to act quickly to preserve evidence.
What should I do after a truck accident?
Call 911 immediately, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos if possible, gather witness contact information, and contact a Bloomington truck accident lawyer as soon as you can.
Do I need a lawyer for a truck accident claim?
Yes. Truck accident claims are far more complex than car accident cases. Multiple parties may be involved, and trucking companies often have powerful legal teams protecting their interests. Having an experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected.
How much is my truck accident case worth?
Every case is unique. The value depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and liability. A skilled attorney can evaluate your case and pursue maximum compensation.
What if I was partially at fault?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault, but your damages may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Contact a Bloomington Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t face the trucking companies and insurance adjusters alone. At Haxel Law, we have the experience, resources, and dedication to stand up for your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (217) 215-4166 to start your conversation with a team that puts your recovery first.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I will definitely use Haxel Law again!"I’m so grateful for the legal assistance I received from Haxel Law. Martin is extremely knowledgeable and guided me throughout the process. I recommend Martin Haxel. He’s no nonsense and gets the job done. If needed I will definitely use Haxel Law again.- Sally B.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.