When a trucking accident happens, the damages can be severe — sometimes life-changing. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a commercial truck, you might wonder: can you hold the trucking company responsible for the driver’s negligence? The answer is often yes, but it depends on several important factors.
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we help injured victims understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about suing a trucking company for a driver’s negligence in Illinois.
Understanding Trucking Company Liability
Trucking companies are legally responsible for ensuring that their drivers operate safely and comply with federal and state regulations. This includes proper training, regular vehicle maintenance and adhering to hours-of-service rules designed to prevent driver fatigue.
When a truck driver causes an accident because of negligence — whether it’s distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence or failing to follow safety protocols — the trucking company may also be held liable under a legal concept called vicarious liability. This means companies can be responsible for the actions of their employees performed within the scope of their work.
When Can You Sue the Trucking Company?
You can sue a trucking company if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. This means the driver was performing job duties related to the company, such as delivering goods or traveling between job sites.
Additionally, trucking companies can be held liable if they were negligent in hiring, training or supervising the driver. For example, if the company failed to check the driver’s record for prior violations or ignored safety regulations, they may share responsibility for the crash.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents Involving Negligence
Truck crashes caused by negligence may result from:
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Driver fatigue from exceeding legal driving hours
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Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
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Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
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Improper vehicle maintenance leading to mechanical failure
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Failure to obey traffic laws or signals
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Poor load securing, causing shifting cargo and loss of control
Each of these factors can increase liability for both the driver and the trucking company.
What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Liability?
Proving a trucking company’s liability often requires thorough investigation and strong evidence, including:
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The truck driver’s employment records and driving history
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Maintenance logs for the truck
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Black box or electronic logging device (ELD) data showing hours driven
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Police and accident reports
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Eyewitness testimony and video footage
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Expert analysis on accident causes
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators to gather and analyze the evidence needed to build a strong case.
Why You Need an Experienced Trucking Accident Lawyer
Trucking companies and their insurers have significant resources to defend claims. They often hire aggressive attorneys to minimize payouts or deny responsibility altogether.
Having an experienced trucking accident attorney on your side is critical. We understand the complex regulations governing commercial trucks and know how to navigate the legal system to hold trucking companies accountable. We fight for full compensation covering medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Illinois Statute of Limitations
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injuries. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also typically two years from the date of death.
Because these deadlines are strict, it’s important to contact an attorney promptly to preserve your rights.
Contact the Dinizulu Law Group for Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Illinois, don’t wait to seek legal advice. The team at the Dinizulu Law Group is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us today at (312) 384-1920 for a free, confidential consultation and to get started today.
