The trucking industry is vital to our economy. However, due to their enormous size and weight, commercial trucks can cause catastrophic injuries in an accident. Additionally, commercial trucks take a heavy toll on our highway infrastructure.
To help keep motorists safe and protect our roads and bridges, Illinois and the federal government have enacted regulations that limit the weight of commercial trucks. When the weight limit is exceeded, accidents are more likely to occur and can cause even more damage.
If you have been injured in an overweight truck accident in Illinois, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. You need an experienced truck accident attorney in Chicago who knows how to identify and prove state and federal violations to establish causation and liability.
At Meyers & Flowers, our Chicago personal injury lawyers have helped recover over $6 billion for our clients and we are committed to helping you secure maximum compensation for your damages. Call (630) 280-3771 or complete the short form on our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.
What is an Overweight Truck in Illinois?
The maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) limit for trucks in Illinois is 80,000 pounds, which is the same as the federal limit. Trucks exceeding this weight limit are considered overweight and violate both state and federal laws.
Why Overweight Trucks Are Dangerous
Overloaded trucks increase the force of impact in an accident which causes more catastrophic damages. Additionally, overloaded trucks are harder to control and maneuver which can contribute to more accidents.
Overweight trucks are also at a greater risk of tire blowouts, rollovers, and brake failures. When truck weights are exceeded, it also increases the distance needed to stop or slow down, increasing the risk of accidents.
Liability in Illinois Overweight Truck Accident Cases
Truck regulation violations increase the risk and severity of accidents. Overweight trucks are one of the top violations that contribute to accidents.
Truck drivers, trucking companies, and the loading company may be held liable for damages caused in an overweight truck accident. Additional parties who may be liable in an accident include manufacturers of defective equipment, negligent maintenance and repair businesses, other drivers, and government entities responsible for dangerous or negligently maintained roads.
At Meyers & Flowers, our experienced truck accident lawyers carefully investigate each accident to help identify all possible causes and all potentially liable parties to help you recover maximum compensation.
Compensation in an Overweight Truck Accident in Illinois
In a successful Illinois overweight truck accident case, you may be able to recover economic and non-economic damages such as:
- Current and future medical expenses.
- Current and future lost wages.
- Property damages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional and mental distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Other tangible and intangible costs.
Contact an Illinois Overweight Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in an accident involving an overweight truck, you may be able to recover significant compensation for your damages. However, insurance companies and defense attorneys will work to deny or devalue your claim. You need the assistance of an experienced Illinois truck accident lawyer to protect your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.
The truck accident lawyers at Meyers & Flowers have the experience, skills, and resources to help you recover maximum compensation. Contact us today at (630) 280-3771 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation and discuss your truck accident claim.