Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents on the roads today; if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted truck driver in Chicago, it’s important to seek legal representation from an experienced Chicago distracted truck driving accident lawyer from our truck accident law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving includes any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the stereo. Texting is particularly dangerous; taking your eyes off the road for 5 seconds, which at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blind. Full attention is crucial for safe driving.
How Serious is the Problem of Distracted Driving in Illinois?
According to National Highway Safety Administration ,”Distracted driving is dangerous, claiming 3,308 lives in 2022.”
Is It Legal to Use a Cell Phone While Driving in Illinois?
Illinois law prohibits using hand-held cell phones, texting, video conferencing, or other electronic communications while driving. Hands-free devices or Bluetooth are allowed for those 19 and older.
Even hands-free technology is a distraction while driving and can be dangerous. If you must make a call, it’s recommended to pull off to the side of the road first.
The only time Illinois drivers can use a cell phone that is not hands free is:
- To report an emergency situation.
- While parked on the shoulder of a roadway.
- While stopped due to normal traffic being obstructed and the vehicle is in neutral or park.
Signs Of Distracted Driving That Could Lead to Truck Accidents
Signs that truck drivers may be driving while distracted include:
- Drifting between lanes
- Failure to maintain a consistent speed
- Frequent and sudden braking
- Delayed reactions to traffic signals or other vehicles on the road
What Causes Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving that leads to truck accident injuries is caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Texting and other phone use
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting the radio or navigation system
How Can a Chicago Truck Accident Attorney Help Me?
Truck accident victims who have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted truck driver, can hire Chicago truck accident lawyers who can help them seek compensation in their truck accident cases.
Some ways that an experienced truck accident lawyer can assist with a truck accident claim include:
- Investigating the circumstances of the accident to determine if the truck driver was distracted
- Gathering evidence such as phone records or witness statements
- Negotiating with insurance companies representing trucking companies
- Representing you in court if necessary and advocating for your rights as a victim
Who May Be Liable for Distracted Driving Truck Accidents?
Car accidents involving trucks may be the responsibility of:
- Commercial truck drivers
- A trucking company
- Cargo loaders
- Vehicle manufacturers
- Government entities responsible for road maintenance
What Type of Compensation Might I Receive?
Some types of compensation that you may be entitled to in a truck accident case include:
- Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, and ongoing rehabilitation
- Lost wages or income due to time missed from work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages (if applicable)
Contact a Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck distracted driving accident, seek legal representation from an experienced Chicago trucking accident at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers promptly.
(312) 223-1700