Serious car accidents can happen to anyone unexpectedly, and a significant number of incidents involve tractor trailers. Truck accidents often cause serious injuries and/or fatalities. Sadly, this recently occurred in Illinois. The driver of a car apparently failed to engage a signal in a timely manner before attempting to make a left turn. As a result, the SUV behind that car had to slow down to avoid hitting the car.
The driver of the SUV was successful in not striking the car. However, a tractor trailer was not able to slow in time and hit the back of the SUV. This impact caused the SUV to be pushed into the rear of the car. All three vehicles left the roadway and ended up in a ditch.
The collision resulted in the SUV driver suffering injuries, and he was taken from the scene by helicopter. It was unclear what type of injuries he suffered, and his condition was reported as being fair. The other two drivers involved in the crash did not suffer any injuries. However, those drivers were each cited in the accident. The driver of the car was cited for failing to use a turn signal, and the truck driver was cited for failing to slow down in order to avoid an accident.
Truck accidents can often lead to considerable damage, and that appears to be the case with this Illinois crash. The driver of the SUV may wish to consider filing a personal injury claim against both of the other drivers, as well as the trucker’s employer. This type of civil claim could allow him to seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering and additional damages resulting from the crash.
Source: journalstandard.com, “Pecatonica man in fair condition after three-vehicle accident in Jo Daviess County“, Chris Green, Oct. 6, 2015