I-290 Truck Accident Lawyer

Chicago I-290 Truck Accident Law Firm

The Eisenhower Expressway, more commonly known as I-290, is a heavily trafficked stretch of interstate running through the heart of Cook County. With commuters, freight haulers, and commercial drivers all sharing this route, collisions are unfortunately quite common, especially near major interchanges like I-294 and the Dan Ryan Expressway. 

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were nearly 300,000 crashes across the state in 2023. Tractor-trailers were involved in almost one in ten fatal crashes, showing the dangers heavy commercial vehicles bring to busy highways.

If you or someone you care about was injured in a truck collision on I-290, we have an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in Chicago, IL, ready to help. Our truck accident lawyers have decades of experience in Illinois, recovering millions in financial compensation for people affected by vehicle crashes. Based in Chicago and representing clients statewide, we provide a free consultation and only get paid if we win your case.

Why I-290 Is Prone to Commercial Truck Crashes

I-290 spans just over 30 miles from the western suburbs into downtown Chicago. The Eisenhower Expressway cuts through dense, urban neighborhoods and connects with several high-volume highways. This mix of heavy traffic, aging infrastructure, and frequent construction zones makes the route particularly dangerous for truck operations.

Major junctions along I-290 include:

• I-294 (Tri-State Tollway): A heavily trafficked bypass running north-south through the Chicago suburbs, connecting to multiple freight corridors.
• I-355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway) Links the western suburbs to I-290, which is often used by commercial traffic heading toward central Illinois.
• IL Route 83: A busy state route intersecting I-290 in Elmhurst, known for congestion and heavy vehicle volume.
• US Route 20: Runs parallel to parts of I-290 and frequently intersects with local access roads, adding to traffic complexity.
• Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/I-94): A dense interchange in downtown Chicago where merging traffic and construction zones increase the risk of a crash.

These intersections, coupled with merging issues and narrow lanes, contribute to truck crashes and serious multi-vehicle incidents.

Common Triggers Behind a Truck Collision

I-290 sees more than its share of preventable accidents involving semi-truck operators and commercial vehicles. Key contributing factors include:

• Distracted Driving: Phone use, in-cab tech, or eating behind the wheel can distract a driver’s attention at the wrong moment.
• Brake Failures or Equipment Issues: Poorly maintained commercial trucks are more likely to experience tire blowouts, steering failures, or delayed braking.
• Fatigue: When a truck driver pushes through long hours without rest, their decision-making and response time can suffer.
• Improper Loading: Shifting cargo can cause a vehicle to jackknife or roll, especially during abrupt maneuvers.
• Speeding in Congested Areas: Many truck crashes on I-290 happen when drivers misjudge distance or fail to adjust speed.
• Weather Conditions: Reduced visibility and slick pavement from snow or rain play a role in many collisions.

Each truck accident case requires a close review of records, inspection logs, and crash data to identify what went wrong and who is liable.

Is the Driver’s Employer or the Driver Held Responsible?

Unlike a typical car accident, trucking often involves multiple liable parties. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility might fall on:

• A commercial driver who was speeding, driving distracted, or failing to adhere to hours-of-service rules.
• The trucking company that failed to service the vehicle properly or put profit ahead of the driver’s employer if they oversaw logistics, scheduling, or were unable to ensure the driver’s qualifications.
• Third-party loaders, whose negligence in securing cargo may have contributed to the crash.
• Manufacturers in cases involving defective brakes, tires, or steering systems.

It’s also important to note that Illinois law uses modified comparative negligence. If an injured person is less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages, though the total may be reduced based on their share of responsibility.

Uncovering fault in a commercial accident case takes more than assumptions. Our truck accident lawyers examine inspection logs, contracts, black box data, and maintenance records to pursue every liable party and support your claim with facts.

Post-Car Accident Steps for Truck Accident Cases and Serious Injuries 

In the aftermath of a serious collision, taking immediate steps can protect both your health and your case. Injuries from truck crashes can range from fractures and whiplash to traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or internal bleeding, some of which may not present symptoms right away. Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and also help link your condition to the crash in official reports.

Here’s what to do:

• Call 911 to report the crash and receive emergency care.
• Document the scene with photos or videos, including vehicle damage and road conditions.
• Exchange contact and insurance details with other drivers and any witnesses.
• Request a copy of the police report and retain all medical records.
• Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company before speaking to a lawyer.

Preserving evidence early and addressing injuries without delay can make a meaningful difference in how your commercial accident settlement is evaluated.

How Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help You Seek Compensation

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we understand the toll a truck collision can take. Some clients come to us while recovering from critical injuries, while others are navigating the aftermath on behalf of a loved one. In every case, trusted legal support can make a real difference.

We help clients:

• Navigate the full claims process and build a strong truck accident claim.
• Coordinate with physicians to document serious injuries.
• Handle negotiations with insurers who undervalue claims.
• File suits when the truck driver’s employer or trucking company tries to deflect responsibility. The firm’s goal is simple: pursue maximum financial compensation for your losses—medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.

Get a Free Consultation with an I-290 Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you were involved in a crash with a semi truck or commercial truck ondon’t0, don’t wait to understand your options. Illinois law only allows two years to file a personal injury claim, and the earlier you act, the stronger your case can be.

Contact a Chicago personal injury attorney for a free case evaluation. We’ll assess your claim, explain your rights, and help you seek compensation. Call (888) 424-5757 or fill out our online form.

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.