4 Common Misconceptions About Tractor-Trailer Accidents

 Posted on October 23, 2024 in Truck Accidents

The Chicagoland area is home to several major freight hubs, increasing the number of tractor-trailers on Illinois roads. These huge trucks frequently produce catastrophic injuries and property damage. You likely know that you could collect compensation after a truck crash that injured you, but many people have misconceptions about these cases that can damage your claim.

At Kanoski Bresney, we want you to understand the truth about truck accidents and injury claims that result. Call to discuss your situation with one of our skilled attorneys to learn more about how we can help.

Misconception: Truck and Car Accidents Are Alike

Cars and trucks are both motor vehicles, but there are far more differences than similarities:

• Fully loaded trucks weigh 80,000 pounds, while the average car weighs 4,000.
• Cars are about 15 feet long and 5 feet high, with trucks measuring around 72 feet long and 13.5 feet tall.
• At 65 mph, cars need 316 feet to stop; trucks need 525 feet.
• A truck’s air brakes have lag time, but car brakes do not.
• Trucks are significantly more challenging to control and maneuver.

Many motorists mistakenly believe trucks handle like cars, often merging directly in front of a semi. Drivers do not always realize that trucks may be unable to avoid collisions in these circumstances simply because of their size and weight.

Misconception: Determining Fault for Truck Crashes Is Easy

When two cars collide, assigning fault is typically straightforward. However, when an 18-wheeler is involved, several parties could share responsibility. Drivers, trucking companies, truck maintenance companies, cargo loaders, and parts manufacturers are often at fault.

Identifying the at-fault party or parties is necessary to establish liability for paying your compensation. You cannot file a claim unless you know who to file it against. In addition, you may share fault for your truck crash. Your degree of fault determines your eligibility for compensation and governs how much you could receive.

Misconception: Insurance Companies Pay Claims Fairly

Damages in truck accidents are usually high. Damages are specific accident-related losses and the reimbursement or compensation you could receive. No insurance company likes paying even minor claims, often employing various methods to devalue them. For cases with high damages, they typically fight much harder against making payment.

Misconception: Truck Accident Claims Are Simple

Some personal injury cases are simpler than others, but truck accident claims are almost always complicated and complex. If you do not know how to handle potential problems, your mistakes can be costly. Injured victims who partner with a competent lawyer from Kanoski Bresney typically obtain substantially higher compensation amounts. Why? Because we have the experience, legal knowledge, resources, and skills needed to win the compensation you deserve.

Call Our Dedicated Decatur, IL Truck Accident Lawyers

Choosing the right lawyer can help you achieve the case results you deserve after a truck crash. Call Kanoski Bresney at 888-826-8682 for your free consultation with our highly effective Bloomington, IL personal injury attorneys.