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The Dangers of Semi-Truck Accidents

 Posted on September 13, 2018 in Truck Accidents

Chicago Semi-Truck Accident Injury AttorneysA recent tragedy in the Chicago area reminded us of the constant dangers semi-truck drivers face every time they start a shift. On Tuesday, September 11th, a semi-truck crashed into a Lansing apartment building, injuring themselves and one resident. The accident occurred prior to 8:00 a.m. on Torrence Avenue, south of 184th Street. While the truck driver was not fatally injured in the accident, his injuries did require hospitalization.

The accident was the latest in a long line of semi-truck accidents. In 2016 alone, over 4,400 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal accidents throughout the United States. If you or a family member are involved in a motor vehicle collision, it is paramount to speak with a legal professional.

Semi-Truck Crashes Rising Nationwide

Despite mandated testing that all drivers must pass before operating a semi-truck, accidents involving semi-trucks continue to rise. According to the Department of Transportation, semi-truck fatalities have risen 29% since 2005. In 2016, the Department of Transportation found that there was a nearly 2% increase in semi-truck fatalities, in comparison to 2015.

Also noted in the Department of Transportation’s study was a 29% increase in injuries involving semi-trucks and buses. In 2016 alone, there were approximately 119,000 Americans injured in semi-truck and bus accidents. The more than 4,000 semi-truck and bus-related fatalities in 2016 showcase the risk that every driver faces when these larger vehicles are present.

Why Semi-Trucks Face Increased Risk

Semi-truck drivers are only allowed to operate their vehicles after receiving their Commercial Driver’s License - and for good reason. The sheer mass of semi-trucks can result in a great deal of damage to other vehicles in a collision. Due to the size of semi-trucks (many semi-trucks weigh over 25,000 pounds), the drivers are faced with increased challenges when braking and steering. If a semi-truck is traveling at excessive speeds, it can be difficult to effectively utilize braking systems, and quickly changing directions hazardous.

Set Up a Free a Consultation With a Lake County Personal Injury Lawyer

At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our legal team fully understands the tragedy of a vehicular collision. When a family member is injured in an automobile accident, the whole family is impacted. If you and your family face the difficulties that come with a motor vehicle accident, it is important to find a legal team that you can trust. To schedule a free consultation with a Waukegan personal injury attorney, call us today at 847-662-3303.

 

Sources:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/safety/data-and-statistics/398686/ltbcf-2016-final-508c-may-2018.pdf

https://abc7chicago.com/driver-resident-injured-after-semi-truck-crashes-into-lansing-apartment-building/4210464/

 

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If you or a member of your family has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, contact our office. Call 847-662-3303 to set up a free initial consultation at one of our four convenient locations. There is no risk because we only collect fees if you collect compensation. With offices in Libertyville, Waukegan, Richmond, and Chicago, we represent clients in Lake County, Cook County, DuPage County, and McHenry County.

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