Truck Accident

Justice Starts Here: Chicago’s Trusted Truck Accident Law Firm

Truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities, and a Chicago truck accident lawyer can help victims navigate these complex claims. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles, these crashes are far more severe than standard auto accidents and often involve multiple liable parties and state and federal trucking regulations.

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our Chicago truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims and their families recover maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With extensive experience handling high-stakes truck accident claims, we work tirelessly to hold negligent trucking companies and drivers accountable. Over our career, we’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured clients, allowing them to focus on healing—and we’re ready to do the same for you.

What Makes Us the Best Truck Accident Law Firm in Chicago

If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident in the Chicago area, it’s normal to be worried about picking the right truck accident injury attorney and to feel nervous about how the process will work. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can make the process easier for you. Our Chicago-based truck accident law firm is recognized for our in-depth knowledge and proven track record.

PROVEN SUCCESS IN TRUCK ACCIDENT LITIGATION

Over the years, our tractor-trailer accident attorneys handled many truck collision cases with positive outcomes for our clients. Below are examples of the cases we’ve managed successfully, showing how we’ve fought for fair compensation and justice for those who’ve been hurt.

$18,500,000 Recovery: Our commercial truck crash attorney recovered this amount for a Chicago truck accident involving a woman who was injured in a head-on collision. The accident occurred on the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/I-190), a critical Chicago traffic artery.

$12,300,000 Recovery: Our truck crash injury attorney obtained this settlement for a Chicago union plumber crushed while unloading material from a flatbed truck at a large construction site near the Stevenson Expressway (I-55), a heavily traveled corridor for trucking.

$6,000,000 Recovery: Our commercial truck injury lawyers secured this amount for the family of a Chicago truck driver who tragically fell from his sleeping compartment and died. The incident involved a truck operating near the Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88), a primary route for freight movement.

$5,800,000 Recovery: Our Chicago commercial truck accident lawyers achieved this settlement for a mother and daughter struck by an 18-wheeler making an illegal turn on the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/I-94), one of the busiest expressways in the country.

$805,500 Recovery: A Chicago truck crash attorney from our firm negotiated this settlement for a tractor-trailer accident involving a cyclist, resulting in a rotator cuff injury and surgery. The crash occurred near the Tri-State Tollway (I-294), a major trucking route encircling the Chicago metropolitan area.

If you or a loved one were injured in a Chicago truck crash, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation and truck accident help you deserve.

Why Hire Our Chicago Truck Crash Lawyers

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident in Illinois, it’s important to work with the right attorney to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we have nearly 25 years of experience in helping clients navigate complex personal injury cases and recover compensation.

During that time, we have brought in over $450 million for people who have faced serious injuries. Our office is located in downtown Chicago, and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss your case at any time, either in person or over the phone. We work diligently to secure the best possible outcomes for every person we represent. For help, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with a Chicago truck accident lawyer.

Why You Need the Best Truck Accident Attorney in Chicago

Hiring the best accident lawyers in Chicago with a proven background in handling truck collision cases can make a big difference in how much compensation you receive. Commercial vehicle accident lawyers are familiar with trucking industry rules and safety standards, so they know what to look for when trying to prove liability.

They also have experience dealing with insurance companies, who are known to make settlement offers for far less than what you actually need based on your truck accident injuries and losses. The best truck accident lawyer in Chicago knows what tactics insurance companies and commercial trucking companies use and will take the necessary steps to fight back to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

The Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in and Around Chicago

Commercial and semi-truck crashes hurt and kill many people every year in Chicago. Approximately 19,945 large truck crashes occur each year in Illinois, killing more than 100 people and injuring 40,000+ others [1]. Around 10,000 of these semi-accidents in Chicago occur in Cook County [2].

Transportation-related accidents accounted for 34% of workplace injuries in Illinois. [3] They are also the most fatal, accounting for 38% of workplace fatalities. Drivers who survive truck accidents typically suffer from multiple traumatic injuries, including burns, intracranial fractures, and injuries to internal organs.

The most common causes of truck accidents in Chicago include:

• Driving while tired: Drowsy driving happens far too often in Chicago, especially on high-traffic routes like I-94. If you or a loved one were involved in a truck accident on I-94 Chicago today, a truck wreck lawyer can file a claim on your behalf.
• Drunk driving: Operating a semi-truck under the influence in a busy urban setting often leads to devastating outcomes.
• Poorly maintained trucks: Not keeping motor vehicles in safe working order puts everyone in danger on major highways like the Dan Ryan Expressway.
• Faulty mechanical parts: Defective brake systems or steering components make a Chicago semi-truck accident far more likely, especially when traveling at high speeds.
• Untrained drivers: Large commercial vehicles require expert handling, and inexperienced operators can cause serious collisions on roads like I-90 and I-290, where there are often large trucks and many other drivers.
• Incorrectly secured cargo: Shifting or spilling cargo can occur when it isn’t properly secured, especially during sudden stops near downtown Chicago. This can cause vehicles around the trucks to crash.
• Reckless driving: Speeding, tailgating, and weaving in and out of traffic are all reckless behaviors that increase the risk of a truck crash in Chicago, leading to injuries and property damage for passenger vehicles involved.
• Breaking traffic laws: Ignoring stop signs, running red lights, or failing to follow weight restrictions in Cook County can have severe consequences.

Determining Liability in a Chicago Truck Accident Case

Determining liability in a Chicago truck accident case often involves a detailed investigation into factors that may have contributed to the collision. Your top accident lawyer in Chicago would usually begin by reviewing evidence to see if anything obvious points to the liability of the truck driver.

Maintenance records and vehicle inspections should be considered, as sometimes, a defective truck or part of the truck can cause the accident. When this is the case, the company responsible for the defective part can be held liable in these accidents. If you’ve suffered injuries in a truck crash, Chicago lawyers can help you.

To learn more about proving liability and who may be responsible for paying your damages, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today.

You Have Limited Time to File a Claim After a Truck Accident in Illinois

The Illinois statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including truck accidents, refers to the amount of time after an incident that you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the nature of your truck crash claim in Chicago, different statutes of limitations would apply.

For Illinois wrongful death and personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of injury or death to file a truck accident claim in Chicago. However, this deadline could be different in some circumstances.

For instance, if you discovered the cause of the injury or death later, it is possible that you might have more time. On the other hand, you may have less than two years if you are filing a claim against a government entity, making it essential to seek help as soon as possible after an accident.

You should discuss the specifics of your case with a qualified truck crash lawyer so that you have a clear understanding of how much time you have to make a claim. Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to speak with a commercial truck accident attorney or a fatal truck accident lawyer.

How to Maximize the Value of Your Truck Accident Case in Chicago, IL

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries and significant financial losses, given the size and weight of commercial vehicles.

What is Considered a Commercial Truck?

A commercial truck is any vehicle used for business purposes to transport goods or passengers. This category includes but is not limited to:

• Semi-Trucks
• Box Trucks
• Delivery Vans
• Dump Trucks
• Tanker Trucks

These vehicles often operate under strict federal and state regulations, which can directly affect how your claim is handled.

After ensuring your immediate safety and addressing the initial steps, taking the following actions can help you build a strong case and maximize its value.

1. Understand Reporting Requirements (Illinois Law)

Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-406), any accident involving death, injury, or property damage exceeding $1,500 must be reported to law enforcement. Additionally, commercial truck accidents may trigger federal reporting requirements if hazardous materials are involved or if certain thresholds are met.
Request a copy of the police report, as it will serve as critical evidence, documenting fault, the truck driver’s compliance with regulations, and other key details.

2. Secure Truck-Specific Evidence

Unlike standard car accidents, truck accidents often involve complex factors. Make sure to gather:

• Trucking Company Information: Record details about the trucking company, including the truck’s USDOT number (typically displayed on the side of the vehicle).
• Driver Logs: Federal law requires truck drivers to maintain hours-of-service logs. These logs can reveal whether the driver exceeded their allowable driving hours, which is a common cause of fatigue-related accidents.
• Black Box Data: Commercial trucks often have electronic data recorders (“black boxes”) that track speed, braking, and other metrics at the time of the crash.

These pieces of evidence can be invaluable in proving negligence or violations of trucking regulations.

3. Monitor Your Medical Treatment Closely

Truck accidents often cause serious injuries like spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, or internal organ damage. To maximize your claim:

• Follow all medical advice and attend every appointment.
• Obtain detailed medical records and bills to document the full extent of your injuries.
• Keep a pain journal to detail how the injuries impact your daily life.

4. Preserve Evidence of Economic Losses

Truck accident claims often involve substantial financial losses, which you can claim as part of your damages. Document:

• Lost wages, including any future earning capacity reductions caused by permanent injuries.
• Property damage to your vehicle.
• Out-of-pocket expenses for medical care, transportation, or necessary home modifications.

5. Avoid Premature Communication with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies representing trucking firms or their drivers often have significant resources to minimize payouts. Do not:

• Provide a recorded statement to the truck driver’s insurer without consulting your attorney.
• Accept an initial settlement offer without reviewing its adequacy with legal counsel.

Insurance adjusters may attempt to exploit unfamiliarity with commercial truck accident claims to offer a low settlement.

6. Explore Additional Avenues of Liability

Truck accidents may involve multiple liable parties, such as:

• The truck driver, for negligence or recklessness.
• The trucking company, for inadequate hiring, training, or supervision.
• A maintenance provider or manufacturer, if faulty equipment contributed to the accident.

Identifying all responsible parties can significantly increase the value of your claim.

7. Consult an Experienced Truck Crash Attorney

Truck accident cases involve unique challenges, including compliance with federal trucking regulations and dealing with powerful insurance companies. An experienced Chicago truck wreck attorney can:

• Access expert witnesses to strengthen your case.
• Navigate complex trucking laws and ensure all liable parties are held accountable.
• Negotiate aggressively to secure a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Chicago, contact a trusted commercial vehicle accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation and begin building a strong case. This can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, property damage, and long-term impacts.

How Long Does Settling a Truck Accident Case Take in Chicago?

The timeline for resolving a truck crash claim in Chicago can vary widely, ranging from a few months to over a year. The Chicago Police Department’s Major Accidents Investigation Unit will examine the crash scene, which can take some time.

Negotiations with insurance companies can further impact the timeline. If a lawsuit is filed, it could proceed through the Cook County Circuit Court or the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois for interstate trucking cases. Working with an experienced truck crash lawyer ensures you have a clear understanding of the process and realistic expectations for your case.

The Dangerous Consequences of Big Rig Accidents

Big rigs dominate Chicago’s busy highways, like the Dan Ryan Expressway and I-94, increasing the risk of devastating truck collisions that can result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Truck accident victims often face significant challenges, such as lifelong medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional hardships.

Our skilled trucking accident attorneys understand the challenges of these cases and collect critical evidence, including driver logs, black box data, and expert testimony, to build a strong claim. If you’ve suffered a TBI or other severe injury in a truck accident, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Your Legal Options Following a Chicago Truck Crash

Following a truck crash in Chicago, you may have several ways to seek compensation. If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you could file a personal injury lawsuit with the help of a tractor-trailer injury attorney. If you were hurt on the job, a workers’ compensation claim may be available under Illinois law.

The best way to determine how to obtain the compensation you deserve after a semi-crash in Chicago is to reach out to our Chicago trucking accident attorneys and truck accident wrongful death lawyers as soon as possible.

Who Is Held Liable in Chicago Truck Accident Cases?

Determining liability in Chicago truck accident cases can be complex, as multiple parties may be held responsible depending on the circumstances of the incident. Commonly liable parties include:

Truck Drivers

Truck drivers may be held personally liable if their negligence or violation of state and federal regulations contributed to the accident. This includes violating hours-of-service laws, driving under the influence, or engaging in other unsafe/unlawful practices.

Trucking Companies

Trucking companies can be held accountable for violations such as neglecting vehicle maintenance, enforcing unsafe schedules, or requiring illegal overtime. They may also face vicarious liability for accidents caused by their drivers, even without direct negligence.

Part Manufacturers

If a defective truck part contributes to an accident, the manufacturer may be subject to a product liability claim. These cases are often more complex and require prompt legal consultation.

Government Agencies

Government agencies may bear liability in truck accidents involving their vehicles or for failing to maintain safe road conditions. This includes scenarios with poorly managed public roads or hazardous infrastructure.

Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to speak with a Chicago accident lawyer to learn who could be liable for your injuries.

How Much Can Be Recovered in a Chicago Truck Accident Case?

Every truck crash case is unique, and the amount of compensation varies based on several factors. Cases involving wrongful death, catastrophic injuries, or gross negligence by a trucking company often result in high settlements.

Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts

Some of the most common factors that affect settlement amounts include:

• Out-of-Pocket Costs of Losses
• Extent of Injuries
• Amount of Insurance Coverage
• Strength Evidence
• Witnesses

Working with experienced Chicago trucking accident attorneys can help truck accident victims maximize their recovery and secure the compensation they deserve.

Damages Our Chicago Big Rig Accident Lawyers Can Help You Recover

If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident in Chicago caused by negligence, you may be eligible to pursue damages. These can include economic losses like current and future medical expenses, lost wages, or property repairs, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

For fatal accidents, compensation may cover funeral costs and the loss of financial support and companionship. Our Chicago big rig accident attorneys can help you gather evidence, identify liable parties, and secure the compensation you deserve.

Can I Still Receive Compensation if I’m Partially Responsible for the Accident?

In Illinois, truck accidents follow the state’s modified comparative negligence laws. This allows you to receive compensation, like medical bills and pain and suffering, even if you’re partially responsible for the accident, as long as you’re less than 50% at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced in proportion to your share of responsibility.

Will My Truck Crash Case Go to Court?

Many truck crash claims settle long before reaching a courtroom. If a trucking company and their insurance company dispute your claim or can’t reach an agreement regarding an appropriate amount for medical expenses and other losses, it may need to go before a judge in Cook County Circuit Court or the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

When Should I Hire a Truck Accident Attorney?

It’s generally a good idea to speak with a Cook County semi-truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after a truck accident. Important evidence, such as driver logs or the truck’s black box data, can easily be lost if not collected promptly. By contacting an attorney right away, you give them a better chance to preserve critical information to help build your claim. Truck accident victims should contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today to speak with a Chicago truck accident attorney.

How Much Does Hiring a Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?

You don’t have to pay anything upfront to hire a semi-truck accident lawyer in Chicago from Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers. We provide a free initial consultation, and our legal team works on a contingency basis.

This means that we are paid a set percentage of the truck accident settlement, and you will only pay us if we help you get the settlement that you deserve.

What Evidence Is Needed for a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Chicago?

If you’re filing a truck accident lawsuit in Chicago, it’s helpful to know what types of evidence can strengthen your claim. Below are some of the most important pieces of evidence to gather:

• Police Reports
• Driver Logs
• Black Box Data
• Vehicle Maintenance Records
• Photographs and Videos
• Witness Statements
• Medical Records
• Expert Witness Reports

Your tractor-trailer accident lawyer will help you collect all essential evidence to build the strongest case possible for compensation. If you have questions, contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today.

What’s a Semi-Truck “Black Box?”

A semi-truck “black box” is an electronic device, also called an electronic control module, that records critical data about the truck’s operation. This can include speed, braking, and other driving patterns that occur right before and during an accident. This information can often help determine liability in a truck crash case. If you need help with truck accidents, Chicago lawyers can help.

How Are Semi-Truck Accidents Different Than “Normal” Car Accidents?

Semi-truck accidents involve much larger, heavier vehicles than car accidents that involve standard passenger cars, which can lead to more extensive injuries and property damage. If you’re hurt in a semi-truck crash, you may also have a claim against multiple parties, like the driver or trucking company, for negligent hiring practices. Additionally, trucking companies and their drivers must comply with state and federal regulations, such as hours-of-service limits, making working with a qualified lawyer who understands these rules essential.

If you’re involved in any kind of car accident, the best thing you can do is to reach out to a Chicago truck accident lawyer to discuss how you can recover compensation for medical bills and other losses from commercial trucking companies and their insurance company.

Handling Insurance Adjusters Following a Chicago Truck Accident

Handling insurance companies and adjusters after a Chicago truck crash can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with major local insurers like State Farm, Allstate, or Progressive. Below are some do’s and don’t to keep in mind to protect yourself:

DO

Be Polite and Clear: Answer basic questions without offering extra details.

Collect Documentation: Gather crash reports, photos, and medical records.

Consider Legal Counsel: Speaking with an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you determine your case’s true worth.

DON’T

Don’t Give a Recorded Statement: Avoid recording any statements without guidance from a legal professional.

Don’t Reveal Too Many Personal Details: Stick to the facts. Sharing unnecessary information can lead to your claim being denied or reduced, meaning less compensation for medical costs and other expenses.

Don’t Rush to Accept a Settlement: Once you accept an offer, you likely cannot seek more compensation later. A Chicago accident attorney can advise you on whether the offer seems fair.

What to Do If Offered a Settlement

If you receive a settlement offer after a truck accident in Chicago, you should speak with a top accident attorney in Chicago before accepting anything. Once you sign something accepting compensation in personal injury cases, you can’t pursue additional funds if the offer doesn’t cover all of your expenses and losses. Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to speak with a Chicago semi-truck accident lawyer.

Trucking Company Regulations

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) enforces safety regulations for commercial drivers by issuing registration permits for oversize and overweight loads and conducting periodic inspections at 250 official testing stations [4].

Diesel trucks over 16,000 pounds and older than two years must comply with the Illinois Diesel Emission Inspection Program. Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration mandates hours-of-service regulations for Chicago truck drivers [5]. These include driving a maximum of 11 hours after a 10-hour break, prohibiting driving after 14 consecutive on-duty hours, and requiring a 30-minute break after 8 hours of continuous driving.

Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours of driving in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. Federal law also requires pre-trip and periodic vehicle inspections, focusing on critical systems like steering, brakes, and lights to ensure safety.

Filing a Truck Accident Claim With Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

When you file a claim with Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we work on your behalf from the ground up. Our legal team gathers necessary evidence, such as driver logs or truck maintenance records, and consults with accident reconstruction specialists to develop a solid case. We also manage negotiations with insurance carriers to get you the compensation you need. If negotiations don’t resolve your situation, we can take your case to court and fight for a fair outcome. We’ll do everything we can to make this time as stress-free as possible for you.

Types of Cases We Handle

Our Chicago truck accident lawyers handle a broad range of collision cases, often on major highways like the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/94) and the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290). We regularly help with head-on collisions that cause severe injuries due to the forceful impact and rear-end collisions that can lead to whiplash back problems and spinal cord injuries for drivers and passengers.

Our semi-truck wreck lawyers also handle fatal crashes that tragically claim lives, providing support for grieving families. If a truck skids and folds at the hinge, known as a jackknife accident, we can determine if improper maneuvering or maintenance played a part.

No matter what type of truck accident you’ve been involved in, an attorney from our firm can guide you through the legal process and pursue fair compensation for your losses. Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to speak with our experienced truck accident lawyers.

Chicago Truck Accident Statistics

Truck accidents are a significant concern across the country, and Chicago’s busy roads are no exception. Data from 2022 shows a significant number of accidents involving trucks. There were 2,256 crashes involving tractors pulling semi-trailers, causing nine fatal injuries and 256 injuries, while tractors without semi-trailers were involved in 268 accidents, resulting in 2 deaths and 33 injury incidents. [6]

Single-unit trucks accounted for the largest share of crashes, at 3,250 accidents, causing six fatalities and injuring 386 people, and single-unit trucks with trailers had 451 crashes that led to 41 injuries but no deaths. [6]

Additionally, issues related to trailers, such as faulty coupling and cargo problems, contributed to several accidents – 4 resulting from coupling failures and 16 due to cargo issues, with two resulting in injuries. [6]

Where Do Most Truck Accidents Happen in Chicago?

Truck accidents in Chicago often occur where traffic is heaviest, and road conditions are complex. Below are some of the common areas where these collisions are more likely:

Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/94): High volumes of commercial traffic and frequent congestion lead to rear-end and lane-changing accidents.

Stevenson Expressway (I-55): Busy ramps and merging lanes make the Stevenson a hotspot for truck-involved crashes.

Circle Interchange Near Downtown: The complex joining of highways near the Loop leads to confusion and congested conditions, increasing the chance of accidents.

Lake Shore Drive (US 41): While large trucks are somewhat limited here, trucks still use parts of this route for deliveries, and the mixing of commuter and commercial traffic contributes to collisions.

Major City Intersections (Along Ashland Avenue or Cicero Avenue, for example): Tight corners, traffic lights, and busy pedestrian crossings can lead to accidents involving smaller vehicles and pedestrians.

If you or someone you care about has been involved in a truck accident in Chicago, contact our rear-end truck accident lawyers today to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.

Consult the Best Truck Accident Attorneys in Chicago Today!

If you need one of the best truck accident lawyers, Chicago attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help. Contact us by filling out our contact form or calling our truck wreck law firm toll-free at (888) 424-5757. We have helped many clients navigate the difficult weeks and months following devastating accidents involving semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and cargo trucks.

There is no cost for the meeting with our law firm, and we work on a contingency fee basis. We are here for you 24/7 to help you file your claim for an 18-wheeler truck crash.

Our downtown office, near the Richard J. Daley Center, Dirkson United States Courthouse, and the Chicago Workers’ Compensation Commission, offers convenient access from Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan via I-90, I-94, and I-290.

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

225 W Wacker Dr #1660
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (847) 835-8895

We Proudly Serve Cook County, Including Neighborhoods Like:

Albany Park | Austin | Belmont Cragin | Brighton Park | Englewood | Garfield Ridge | Irving Park | Lake View | Lincoln Park | Logan Square | Near North Side | Near West Side | New City | Portage Park | Roseland | South Lawndale | Uptown | West Englewood | West Ridge | West Town

Resources: [1] IDOT, [2] IDOT, [3] BLS, [4] IDOT, [5] FMCSA, [6] IDOT

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.