Construction zones are carefully planned to keep traffic moving while allowing crews to perform roadwork, but they also create a higher risk of accidents, especially when large trucks are involved. Narrow lanes, sudden stops, uneven pavement, and confusing detours can make construction zones hazardous areas for all drivers.
Our construction zone truck accident lawyer in Joliet can help you seek compensation for your injuries and financial losses. At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., our team has recovered over $100 million for clients and brings 75 years of combined experience to every case.
Our truck accident lawyers in Joliet can file your claim or take legal action against a liable party. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can assist you.
Why are Trucks More Dangerous in Construction Zones?
Construction zones create conditions that are difficult for all vehicles to navigate, but trucks are particularly dangerous due to their size, weight, and handling limitations. With reduced space to maneuver and frequent changes in traffic patterns, accidents involving trucks in these areas can be devastating.
Limited Space and Lane Reductions
Construction zones often have lane closures or temporary lane shifts, leaving less space for vehicles to travel. Trucks require more room to safely change lanes or turn, and reduced space increases the likelihood of sideswipe collisions or trucks veering into other lanes.
Longer Stopping Distances
Trucks need significantly more distance to stop than smaller vehicles. In construction zones, where sudden braking is common due to lane merges or flaggers directing traffic, this can lead to rear-end collisions and chain-reaction crashes.
Increased Blind Spots
Construction zones often include barriers, cones, and equipment that block visibility. For trucks, which already have large blind spots, these obstructions make it even harder to see smaller vehicles, pedestrians, or workers nearby.
Temporary Road Conditions
In construction zones, roads may be uneven, include loose gravel, or have unclear lane markings. Trucks are more difficult to control than smaller vehicles, especially on unstable surfaces. These conditions can increase the chance of rollovers, jackknifing, or other serious accidents.
How Our Joliet Lawyers Determine Liability in Construction Zone Truck Accidents
Determining who is at fault for a truck accident in a construction zone often requires a detailed investigation. These cases can involve multiple parties, and understanding who is responsible is key to pursuing compensation.
Our Joliet personal injury lawyers conduct thorough investigations and work to hold all liable parties accountable.
The Truck Driver
A truck driver may be at fault if their actions directly caused the accident. Common examples include driving too fast for conditions, ignoring warning signs in the construction zone, or being distracted by a phone or GPS device.
The Trucking Company
Employers may share liability if the driver acted negligently while working. For example, trucking companies that fail to properly train drivers or enforce mandatory rest breaks may be held accountable. Additionally, if the company neglected routine vehicle maintenance, it could also bear responsibility for the accident.
Construction Crews or Companies
In some cases, the construction company overseeing the site may be partly responsible. Poorly marked detours, unclear signage, or unsafe road conditions can all contribute to accidents. If a construction company failed to create a reasonably safe environment for drivers, it could share liability.
Other Drivers
Construction zones often create stop-and-go traffic, which can lead to chain-reaction accidents. If another driver acted recklessly, such as cutting off a truck, failing to yield, or braking suddenly, they may also be at fault.
Recovering Damages After a Construction Zone Truck Accident
Truck accidents in construction zones often result in significant financial and personal losses. Compensation in these cases is meant to address both the immediate and long-term effects of the crash.
Our Joliet construction zone truck accident attorneys work to recover what you deserve, and nothing less.
Medical Expenses and Ongoing Care
The cost of medical treatment can be overwhelming after a truck accident. You may be able to recover damages for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing medical needs related to your injuries.
Lost Wages and Future Earnings
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. For more serious injuries, this can include damages for reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job or work at all.
Property Damage
Truck accidents can cause extensive damage to vehicles and other personal property. Compensation may include the cost of repairs or replacement for your car and any items damaged in the collision.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to financial losses, compensation may also account for the physical pain caused by your injuries. Long-term discomfort, limited mobility, or permanent injuries can have a lasting impact on your quality of life.
Emotional Distress
Truck accidents in construction zones can be traumatic experiences. You may be able to recover damages for emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The Importance of Acting Quickly
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means there is a limited timeframe to take legal action.
It’s important to act quickly to gather evidence, document your injuries, and file your case before the deadline. Delaying can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
What to Do After a Construction Zone Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in a construction zone, there are steps you can take to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance. A police report can serve as important evidence later.
- Document the scene if possible: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, construction signage, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information if possible: Gather contact and insurance details from the truck driver and any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention: Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. This also creates documentation that can support your claim.
- Contact a lawyer: A construction zone truck accident lawyer in Joliet can help you understand your options and take the next steps.
Let Our Construction Zome Truck Accident Attorneys in Joliet Assist You
You deserve personalized legal care after suffering injuries in a truck accident. At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we’re here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your case.
