Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer

Seeking Justice and Fair Compensation for Truck Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash anywhere in the city, a skilled Chicago truck accident lawyer at our firm is ready to help. We build strong cases for those affected by devastating collisions with commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, and semi trucks throughout the Chicago area.

Whether the collision happened on the Dan Ryan, I-90, or any busy Chicago roadway, we help victims hold negligent truck drivers and trucking companies liable.

Settlements & Recovered by Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Chicago

$5,800,000

Jennifer and her teenage daughter were driving home when an 18-wheeler made an illegal left turn near Cicero Avenue, slamming into their SUV. Both suffered serious injuries, including a pelvic fracture and multiple surgeries. The truck driver’s violation of traffic laws and lack of proper training significantly impacted the value of their claim.

$3,444,000

James and his family were struck by a commercial truck merging without warning on I-294. Their minivan was forced off the road, resulting in multiple injuries, including a fractured femur and a head injury to their youngest son. We used accident reconstruction specialists and trucking company maintenance records to show negligence.

$1,400,000

Karen was rear-ended by a semi truck while slowing down in traffic near Oak Brook. The impact caused serious spinal injuries, ultimately requiring L4-5 fusion surgery. Her lawsuit focused on driver negligence and the trucking company’s failure to monitor hours-of-service violations.

Why Choose Our Chicago Truck Accident Attorneys

Our top-rated Chicago truck accident attorneys have recovered millions for clients injured by large commercial vehicles. Recognized by Super Lawyers and maintaining a 10.0 rating on Avvo, our team brings proven results and deep knowledge of Illinois trucking laws to every case.

With experience in handling serious injury claims, we fight to hold trucking companies and negligent drivers accountable.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

We represent clients injured in various types of truck accidents. Each case presents unique challenges, and our law firm is equipped to handle even the most complex truck crash scenarios.

Accidents Related to Different Maneuvers

• Jackknife accidents
• Rollover truck accidents
• Rear-end truck collisions
• Head-on truck collisions
• Wide-turn accidents
• Blind spot (no-zone) accidents
• Backing up / reversing accidents
• Underride accidents
• Override accidents

Environmental & Road Condition Factors

Not all truck crashes are caused by driver error alone. Poor visibility, slick roads, and dangerous terrain also contribute to serious accidents, such as:

• Construction zone accidents
• Lost load or cargo spill accidents

Hazards like shifting cargo, potholes, and missing signage can turn a routine drive into a severe accident.

Vehicle-Specific Accidents

Different types of commercial trucks pose unique risks. We are familiar with the challenges of cases involving:

• Delivery trucks
• Dump trucks
• Garbage trucks
• Tanker trucks
• Cement mixer trucks
• Logging trucks
• Tow trucks
• Flatbed trucks
• Box trucks
• 18-wheeler / semi-trucks

Accidents Involving Major Carriers or Commercial Fleets

Crashes involving national delivery fleets often include added legal hurdles. Our semi-truck accident lawyers have handled claims involving:

• Amazon truck accidents
• FedEx truck accidents
• Swift truck accidents
• UPS truck accidents
• JB Hunt truck accidents
• XPO Logistics truck accidents

Severe and Catastrophic Accidents

Some truck accidents are so devastating that they leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Multi-vehicle truck accidents, especially on busy Chicago highways like I-90 and I-55, often result in widespread destruction, with several passenger vehicles caught in the chain reaction.

Fires and explosions are also common in crashes involving semi trucks transporting fuel or hazardous materials. These accidents can cause severe burns and permanent disfigurement.

In the most tragic cases, fatal truck accidents leave families mourning the loss of a loved one while facing overwhelming medical bills, funeral expenses, and emotional trauma.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Chicago?

Understanding the leading causes of truck accidents can help victims and families recognize what went wrong and who may be held responsible.

Truck Driver Negligence

• Distracted driving, such as texting, checking in-cab GPS systems, or violating CDL driver cell phone policies
• Driver fatigue, especially when truck drivers violate DOT Hours-of-Service and FMCSA regulations
• Impaired driving, whether due to a failed FMCSA drug and alcohol testing or prescription medications that impact alertness
• Reckless or aggressive driving, including speeding, tailgating, or unsafe lane changes
• Inexperience or poor training, which leaves truck drivers unprepared for real-world traffic hazards
• Undiagnosed or untreated medical issues, like sleep apnea, poor vision, or other health problems that impair safe driving

Vehicle & Equipment Failures

• Brake malfunctions, which reduce stopping power and increase crash risk
• Tire blowouts or defects, especially on long hauls, where treads wear unevenly
• Steering or suspension failures, which can cause loss of control
• Transmission or engine issues, particularly in older or overworked tractor-trailers
• Defective vehicle components, including lighting, coupling systems, or undercarriage parts

Cargo & Loading Issues

• Overloaded trucks, which exceed legal truck weight limits and strain brakes and tires
• Violation of DOT load securement regulations can cause the cargo to shift, fall, or destabilize the truck
• Unbalanced loads, which increase the risk of rollovers and jackknife accidents

Company & Employer Negligence

Many truck accident victims are injured because the trucking company failed to prioritize safety. Forms of employer negligence include:

• Negligent hiring or retention, such as employing drivers without reviewing their driver qualification file or prior driving records
• Unrealistic delivery schedules, which pressure truck drivers to speed or skip rest periods
• Inadequate training or lack of supervision, especially for new or inexperienced drivers
• Failure to follow federal trucking laws, like FMCSA, or state regulations
• Ignoring scheduled vehicle maintenance, increasing the risk of mechanical failure

Environmental & Road Conditions

• Poor weather, including rain, snow, ice, or heavy fog
• Construction zones, which reduce space and add confusion for drivers
• Potholes, crumbling pavement, or missing signage, which increase crash risk
• Low-visibility areas, like underpasses or poorly lit intersections

Regulatory & Compliance Failures

• Violations of FMCSA safety rules, such as missing logs, skipped inspections, or falsified records
• Incomplete or outdated driver qualification files, which omit prior incidents or disqualifications
• Commercial driver’s license irregularities, including expired, suspended, or improperly issued CDLs

What Are the Most Common Truck Accident Injuries?

Truck accident injuries are often severe due to the size and weight of trucks. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, internal bleeding, or severe burns. These injuries can be debilitating and often require emergency treatment, surgery, and long-term medical care to support physical recovery.

What Damages Can Chicago Truck Accident Victims Recover?

Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses such as emergency medical care, hospital bills, surgical costs, ongoing treatment or rehabilitation, prescription medication, medical equipment, as well as in-home care or assistance. These damages may also compensate for property damage (e.g., vehicle repair or replacement), lost wages during recovery, as well as loss of future earning capacity.

Truck accident victims can also recover compensation for physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, impact on daily functioning and independence, disfigurement or scarring, post-traumatic stress disorder, and loss of companionship or consortium.

Punitive damages may be awarded when a truck driver or trucking company acts with gross negligence or willful misconduct–such as ignoring safety regulations or driving under the influence. These damages are meant to punish reckless behavior and deter similar conduct.

What Is the Average Truck Accident Case Worth in Chicago?

Truck accident case values in Chicago can vary widely based on the facts of each case. The average award is approximately $2,620,278, with settlements and verdicts ranging from $2,961 to $35,129,371. The median award sits at $603,265, offering a more typical expectation for many victims.

Several key factors can affect a case’s value:

• Severity of injuries: Claims involving severe injuries tend to result in higher compensation.
• Clear liability: Strong evidence of negligence or regulatory violations increases claim strength.
• Emotional and financial impact: Long-term trauma, lost wages, and ongoing medical bills can raise settlement amounts.
• Case resolution: Settlements are common, but jury verdicts often lead to larger awards.

An experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer from our team can help determine the actual value of your claim.

Example Cases Filed in Cook County

$27,672,152

Nancy Hoffman, 50, became permanently paraplegic after her vehicle was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer on I-80 near Tipton, Iowa. The truck driver, Dorlan Crane, was allegedly distracted at the time of the crash.

Hoffman, her husband, and daughter sued Crane, his employer (Illinois State Motor Service), and other companies involved in the steel shipment, arguing they were part of a joint venture and jointly liable. The jury agreed, awarding the family damages for medical costs, lost wages, loss of normal life, and pain and suffering.

$15,445,427

Nine-year-old Crystal Colon died when two commercial trucks collided on the Chicago Skyway, causing a chain-reaction crash that crushed her family’s minivan. The Caletz family and another injured party, Shane Evans, sued both truck drivers and their employers for reckless driving in wet conditions.

One truck accident victim, Evans, suffered a crushed leg. The jury found one driver, Lachowski, 75% liable and awarded damages for wrongful death, medical costs, and emotional distress.

$9,310,563

Luis Ramirez, 54, was killed instantly in a head-on tractor-trailer accident when a Ford F250 hauling a trailer crossed the center line on U.S. Route 20 in Elgin. The driver, Susan Jayne, claimed she swerved to avoid a turning dump truck.

Ramirez’s family alleged negligent driving and presented eyewitness testimony refuting the defense’s account. The jury awarded damages for wrongful death, lost earnings, grief, and loss of society suffered by Ramirez’s wife and family.

Why You Need a Commercial Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accident cases are often more complex than standard auto accidents. In Chicago, these claims typically involve multiple parties, all of whom may share liability. Building a strong case requires a deep understanding of state and federal regulations, access to truck maintenance records, and collaboration with experts.

Local courts, like the Cook County Circuit Court, often see disputes over jurisdiction and joint liability. An experienced truck accident lawyer can handle these challenges, preserve key evidence, and hold every potentially liable party accountable.

How Common Are Truck Crashes in Chicago?

Truck accident statisticspublished in IDOT’s 2023 crash report show that more than 6,400 crashes in Chicago involved tractor-trailers, single-unit trucks, and other commercial vehicles.

Tractor-trailers hauling semi-trailers were involved in 2,278 crashes, including 26 fatal collisions and over 2,000 with injuries. Even tractors without trailers were linked to 288 crashes, 3 of which were fatal, with 255 causing injuries.

The most deadly category involved single-unit trucks, which were responsible for 3,427 crashes and 124 fatalities, the highest of any truck type. Another 439 crashes involved single-unit trucks pulling trailers, leading to 20 deaths and nearly 400 injury-related incidents.

Where Do Truck Crashes Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Truck accidents in Chicago often happen on high-traffic routes like I-90, I-94, and I-290, especially near the Jane Byrne Interchange and the Dan Ryan Expressway. Areas near large distribution centers on the South Side and near O’Hare also see frequent crashes involving commercial vehicles.

Collisions commonly occur near facilities operated by major employers such as UPS, FedEx, and Amazon, where tractor-trailers and semi trucks are constantly entering and exiting busy roads.

What Illinois Laws Govern Truck Accident Claims?

Truck accident cases in Chicago are governed by a mix of federal regulations, Illinois trucking laws, and local ordinances.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR)—found in 49 C.F.R. Parts 350–399—set rules for the trucking industry, covering driver qualifications, hours-of-service limits, vehicle inspections, and required maintenance. Both truck drivers and trucking companies must follow these rules, and violations often play a critical role in determining liability after a crash.

The Motor Carrier Act of 1980 expanded federal oversight of interstate trucking operations, making regulatory compliance a key factor in many commercial vehicle cases.

The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/) outlines the operational standards for commercial motor vehicles. The Joint Tortfeasor Contribution Act (740 ILCS 100/) allows multiple at-fault parties to share liability in a truck accident lawsuit.

When a mechanical failure or defective part contributes to a truck crash, claims may also involve the Illinois Product Liability Statute (735 ILCS 5/2-21). If the injured person was working at the time of the incident, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305) may offer an alternative path to recovery.

Chapter 9-72 of Chicago’s Municipal Code regulates truck size, weight limits, and designated routes within city streets. Violations of these local ordinances can strengthen a claim, especially when they show a pattern of unsafe practices.

Legal precedent in Illinois supports holding employers responsible for their drivers’ actions. In Van Horne v. Muller (185 Ill. 2d 299), the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the use of respondeat superior, allowing victims to pursue claims directly against trucking companies when a driver causes harm while working.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Illinois?

Under Illinois personal injury law, victims generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a truck accident lawsuit. This time limit is set by 735 ILCS 5/13-202, which applies to personal injury claims resulting from another party’s negligence.

There are exceptions to this rule. In wrongful death cases, the two-year period begins on the date of death, not the date of the accident. If the injury isn’t immediately apparent, the discovery rule may apply, allowing victims to file within two years of when they knew or should have known about the harm.

Special rules also apply to minors. The statute of limitations is paused until the child turns 18, meaning they typically have until their 20th birthday to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Who Is Legally Liable for Semi-Truck Crashes in Chicago?

Truck accident liability often involves multiple parties. The truck driver may be at fault for reckless driving, fatigue, or substance use. The trucking company can be liable for poor training, unrealistic delivery schedules, or failing to maintain vehicles. Cargo loaders may be responsible if shifting or unsecured freight caused the crash.

In some cases, freight brokers share liability for hiring unsafe carriers. Maintenance providers can be held accountable for faulty repairs, and manufacturers may face claims if defective parts contributed. In multi-vehicle crashes, passenger car drivers may also share responsibility depending on their actions.

Common Defenses Following Accidents in the Trucking Industry

When facing lawsuits, one strategy trucking companies use to avoid liability is framing the case as an independent truck driver vs employee case. Our Chicago accident attorneys counter this by showing the company exercised control over the driver’s schedule, vehicle, or routes, supporting an employer-employee relationship.

Another defense is that the victim caused the crash. We use police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction specialists to establish fault.

Companies may also blame weather or equipment failure, but we investigate maintenance records and driver logs to uncover preventable negligence. These tactics help us hold all responsible parties accountable.

How to Strengthen Your Truck Accident Case in Chicago

Knowing what to do after a truck accident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

First, consult a medical professional, even if injuries aren’t apparent. Then, report the crash to the police and obtain a copy of the report. If possible, document the scene with photos and gather contact information from witnesses.

Avoid giving statements to insurance companies without legal guidance. Preserve any medical records, vehicle damage photos, and employment documents related to lost income. Contacting an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer early ensures vital evidence is protected and your legal rights are preserved.

How Our Chicago Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

Our Chicago personal injury attorneys handle every stage of your case, beginning with a thorough truck accident investigation. We collect key evidence such as accident reports, maintenance records, driver logs, and black box data. We work with expert witnesses to understand how the crash happened and identify all potentially liable parties.

As your case develops, we manage communication with insurance companies, calculate damages, and build a strong claim. If needed, we’re prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the results you deserve.

FAQs

How much does a Chicago truck accident attorney cost?

Our Chicago truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. We only get paid if we recover compensation.

Who can file a truck accident claim in Illinois?

In Illinois, anyone injured in a truck accident can file a claim. Families may also file on behalf of deceased victims.

How is negligence proven in Chicago truck accident cases?

Four elements must be determined to establish negligence:

• Duty: The driver or trucking company owed a duty to operate safely.
• Breach: That duty was violated through reckless or careless behavior.
• Causation: The breach directly caused the accident.
• Damages: The victim suffered harm as a result.

What evidence is needed to support a Chicago truck accident lawsuit?

Strong evidence includes the truck driver log book, data from the truck’s black box, photos of the truck accident scene, witness statements, accident reports, and records of medical treatment and vehicle damage.

How can truck accidents be prevented?

Preventing truck crashes starts with proper safety practices. Drivers should follow recommended speed limits, take required rest breaks, and complete a pre-trip inspection checklist before every haul. Trucks must also comply with DOT reflective tape requirements to improve visibility. Using truck driver safety resources, staying alert, and reporting maintenance issues can reduce risk.

Trucking companies should enforce training, monitor driver hours, and ensure vehicles are properly maintained. These truck driver safety tips help protect drivers and others who share the road with commercial vehicles.

How are truck crash cases different from those involving passenger cars?

Accidents involving large trucks are typically more complex due to the size and weight of these vehicles, federal safety regulations, higher insurance limits, and the involvement of other vehicles multiple parties like the trucking company, broker, or cargo handler.

What if the victim was partially responsible for the accident?

Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. If the victim is less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages, though their compensation is reduced by their percentage of responsibility.

Do Illinois victims have to report accidents even if there are no serious injuries involved?

Yes. Illinois law requires any crash to be reported if it results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,500. Failing to report may affect your ability to file a claim.

When should I speak with the truck driver’s insurance company?

You should avoid speaking with the insurance company before consulting an experienced truck accident attorney. They may use your statements against you. Let your attorney handle all communication.

How long do truck accident cases take to resolve?

Each case is different. Some settle in a few months, while more serious or contested cases can take a year or longer.

Do all truck accident claims end up in court?

No. Many are resolved through settlement. However, if fair compensation isn’t offered, your personal injury lawyer may recommend taking the case to court.

Consult a Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers offer experienced representation with no up-front costs. We’re here to investigate, protect your rights, and fight for maximum compensation.

Contact us for a free consultation and speak directly with an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer in Chicago. We’re ready to help you move forward.