Being injured in a collision with a commercial vehicle—such as a delivery truck, semi-truck, rideshare vehicle, or company car—can turn your life upside down. Medical bills, time away from work, and long-term recovery challenges are common. However, when the at-fault driver is operating a commercial vehicle, the claim becomes more complicated than a typical car accident case.

At Halliday McCall Accident Lawyers of Illinois, we assist injured individuals throughout Peoria with navigating these difficult and often overwhelming claims.

Why Commercial Vehicle Claims Are More Complicated

1. Multiple Parties May Be Liable

Unlike standard auto accidents involving only two drivers, commercial vehicle cases may involve several responsible parties, such as:

• The driver
• The driver’s employer
• The company that owns or maintains the vehicle
• A shipping company
• A vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier

Because commercial transportation often involves layered business relationships, determining exactly who is responsible can take time and requires a careful investigation.

2. Larger Insurance Policies and Aggressive Defense Teams

Commercial vehicles typically carry higher insurance limits due to the risk they pose on the road. While this increases the potential compensation available, it also means insurance companies will fight harder to limit payouts.

These companies often deploy adjusters, investigators, and lawyers immediately after an accident. They may dispute liability, minimize your injuries, or push for a low settlement before you understand the full extent of your damages.

3. Federal and State Regulations Apply

Commercial drivers and trucking companies must follow strict state and federal safety rules, including:

• Hours-of-service limits
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements
• Cargo loading standards
• Driver qualification rules

Violations of these regulations can strengthen your claim, but identifying them requires reviewing logbooks, maintenance records, onboard electronic data, and more.

4. Evidence Disappears Quickly

Commercial vehicles often carry electronic data recorders (“black boxes”), GPS systems, and fleet tracking logs. This data is crucial for proving fault—but it can be overwritten or destroyed if not preserved promptly.

Attorneys acting quickly can send a spoliation letter to ensure critical evidence is not lost.

5. Injuries Are Often More Severe

Large trucks and commercial vehicles weigh significantly more than passenger cars. As a result, accident victims often suffer:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Broken bones
• Long-term disabilities

Severe injuries lead to higher medical expenses and greater long-term damages, which insurance companies often challenge.

What Compensation May Be Available?

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to pursue compensation for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term disability or scarring

A commercial vehicle injury can affect every part of your life. Having legal guidance early can help protect your rights.

How Halliday McCall Accident Lawyers of Illinois Can Help

Our team assists Peoria accident victims by:

• Investigating all potentially responsible parties
• Securing evidence before it disappears
• Analyzing federal and state regulation violations
• Negotiating with commercial insurers
• Pursuing full and fair compensation

We help clients understand their options and take steps toward financial and physical recovery after a devastating commercial vehicle crash.