Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer

With major roadways like Interstates 90/94, 57, 80 and other highways running through Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, it is no surprise that trucking accidents are quite common around the area. Trucks can outweigh other vehicles by up to 20 times, so the resulting injuries can be devastating. You could incur astronomical medical bills, miss work, and endure excruciating pain and suffering.

Illinois law allows you to recover compensation for these losses, and our trucking accident attorneys at Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd. can help. We help victims get their lives back after a horrific truck crash leaves them with physical, emotional, and financial damages. Please contact our office to schedule a free case assessment about your claim.

Trucking Accident Statistics in Illinois

The Illinois Department of Transportation tracks the frequency and severity of trucking accidents in the state, and the numbers from 2020 demonstrate the serious nature of these incidents: 

• There were 1,269 truck accidents in Illinois, 18 of which were fatal.
• Trucks were involved in 30 collisions that caused A-Injuries for victims. This classification includes non-fatal injuries that prevent the victim from walking, driving, or engaging in the normal activities he or she did before the accident. Many more victims sustained B- and C-Injuries, which are not as serious, but can still have long-term effects.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

In general, careless or reckless driving is the main cause of truck crashes. To prove a case for negligence, you must show that the operator breached the duty of care that all motorists owe to others on the road. Examples of negligence may include:

• Speeding in excess of the posted limit or too fast for conditions;
• Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, operating a GPS, eating, drinking, and other activities;
• Drowsy driving, which is a particular problem for truck drivers who work long hours;
• Traffic violations;
• Traveling with improperly loaded or unsecured cargo;
• Failure to maintain and/or inspect equipment, including tires, brakes, axles, and other systems on the truck; and,
• Many more.

In addition to showing various forms of negligence, you must also prove a direct causal link between the operator’s conduct and the accident that caused your injuries. If successful, you may be entitled to recover such damages as:

• Medical expenses, including the costs of surgery, emergency care, long-term treatment, physical therapy, and other types of medical services;
• Lost wages, if your injuries prevent you from working;
• Pain and suffering;
• Losses related to quality of life;
• Emotional distress;
• Loss of consortium, society, and similar effects on your personal relationships; and,
• Others depending on your circumstances.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Chicago Trucking Accident Attorney

Truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, so the best way to protect your rights is by getting legal representation from a highly qualified lawyer. Our attorneys at Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd. are prepared to take on tough trucking and insurance companies, both in settlement negotiations and in court. Please call us or visit us online to set up a no-cost case assessment with a Chicago trucking accident lawyer today.