Drivers and passengers in cars and motorcycles are especially vulnerable in collisions involving large trucks because of the weight difference between the two types of vehicles. Cars weigh an average of 3,500 pounds, while large commercial trucks (known as semis, eighteen wheelers, and tractor-trailers) can weigh up to 80,000 pounds with their loads. In car-truck collisions, 98 percent of the fatalities were the people of the car.

The size and weight of trucks also affects how they interact with cars. Big trucks take longer to stop, are prone to rollovers and jackknifing, need more room to make turns, and have large blind spots. In slippery conditions, the trailers can sometimes swing out into the lanes of other vehicles.

Because of their inherent dangers to people in passenger vehicles and motorcycles, large commercial trucks are regulated by federal interstate trucking safety laws as well as by Illinois laws.

If you or your loved one has been injured in a collision with a large truck, please contact our trucking accident injury attorneys for legal assistance as soon as possible. Our lawyers will find out if the trucking company, driver, or the owner of the trailer is responsible for causing the accident and, if so, seek compensation for past and future medical expenses, past and future wages, pain and suffering, disability, and for other damages. We also represent family members in fatal truck accidents.Just complete the simple form at the Phillips Law Offices website and tell us the details of your case.