Protecting Victims Of Impaired Truck Drivers
Trucking companies and truck drivers are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and by the laws of the states in which they operate. Driving a commercial vehicle in Illinois requires a driver to obtain a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. Under Illinois law, a CDL is disqualified if the driver has a blood alcohol concentration over .04 percent while driving the commercial vehicle. A CDL will also be suspended if the driver refuses a BAC test or is criminally convicted of DUI. A CDL will even be suspended if the driver commits an alcohol-related offense in a noncommercial vehicle if the offense is punishable by a standard driver’s license suspension.
Despite the harsh penalties for these offenses, impaired truck drivers are still responsible for accidents, injuries and deaths every year. At Rapoport Weisberg & Sims P.C., our skilled truck accident attorneys help victims of negligence. If you have suffered injuries in a truck accident or if you have lost a loved one due to an accident caused by an impaired truck driver, we can help you. We have extensive experience in semitruck accident cases. We have the resources to take on even the largest trucking companies and insurance companies to get you the result you deserve.
Understanding Impaired Truck Driving
While drunk driving is a big problem, alcohol is far from the only cause of impairment among truck drivers. Truck accidents are also caused by drivers who are impaired by illegal or prescription drugs. Sleep deprivation also leads to an impaired condition that can cause accidents. The key in these cases is to demonstrate how the driver and trucking company were negligent and how that negligence contributed to your accident.
Truck accident litigation involves substantial investigation and careful preparation. Trucking companies are often heavily insured and protected by lawyers who are committed to limiting the amount of compensation you receive. In cases involving serious or even fatal injuries, the barriers to getting full compensation may be high. You need experienced, dedicated trial attorneys on your side to protect your rights.
Contact Our Illinois Truck Accident Attorneys Today
The sooner we can begin working on your case, the better your chances of getting a good result. After a truck accident, it is important to gather and preserve vital evidence. We can interview witnesses, document the scene, obtain logbooks, recover recording devices and begin the process of demonstrating the extent of the harm you suffered. To discuss your accident in a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 312-445-9160.
