Truck Accident Attorney in Chicago

Comprehensive Legal Support After a Chicago Truck Collision

Truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries and wrongful death, especially when a semi-truck or other large commercial vehicle is involved. When a crash is caused by negligence, a Chicago truck accident attorney can pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and the long term impact on your family.

Leonard Law Group handles truck accidents and wrongful death claims in Illinois. We investigate the crash, identify every liable party, deal with insurers, and prepare the case for settlement or trial so your legal rights and financial recovery are protected.

If you have been injured through the negligence of a truck driver in Chicago, call Leonard Law Group at (312) 487-2513 to discuss your claim. We provide free second opinion case reviews!

Why Choose Leonard Law Group for Your Chicago Truck Accident Claim?

After a serious truck accident, choosing the right legal team can make a meaningful difference in your recovery and your claim. At Leonard Law Group, we are committed to providing personalized guidance every step of the way.

Choose our Chicago truck accident lawyer for our:

• Established in 1996: Decades of experience representing injured individuals throughout Illinois.
• Over $1 billion recovered: A proven record of securing substantial results for accident victims and their families.
• Dedicated team of litigators: We prepare every case thoroughly and are ready to advocate for you in settlement negotiations or at trial.
• More than 50,000 clients represented: Our firm has earned the trust of thousands of clients through experienced, client-focused representation.

When you work with our truck accident lawyer in Chicago, you gain a legal professional who is committed to guarding your rights and keeping you informed throughout the legal process. 

Different Types of Truck Accidents in Chicago

In the Chicago area, truck crashes can occur on busy corridors like the Kennedy Expressway, the Dan Ryan, and I-55 where traffic is heavy and trucks are frequently merging, exiting, or traveling at high speeds.

Some of the most common types of truck accidents include:

• Jackknife accidents
• Tire blowouts
• Wide-turn accidents
• Blind spot accidents
• Lost load accidents
• Rollover accidents

By closely investigating the circumstances of each accident, we can determine the liable parties and pursue the compensation you rightly deserve with the help of a skilled 18-wheeler accident attorney in Chicago.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Chicago

Truckers are under tremendous pressure to meet deadlines and maximize their time on the road. Although strict rules govern the driving schedules and practices of truck drivers, many accidents occur when corners are cut. Trucking companies are quick to cover up any incriminating evidence after an accident, so it is important to get an experienced law firm involved in the investigation as soon as possible. 

All too often, the following factors cause accidents:

• Driver fatigue
• Driver distraction
• Technical failure
• Unsafe driving
• Driving under the influence

Common Injuries Sustained in Chicago Truck Accidents

If you get injured in a truck accident, you can suffer from a wide range of injuries. Knowing the signs and what to look out for can help you catch lingering injuries before they become more serious. 

Some of the most common truck accident injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Brain damage or concussions
• Cuts, scrapes, and bruises

Injuries from truck accidents are not only severe but also complex, often requiring long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. They can significantly disrupt an individual's life, affecting their ability to work and enjoy daily activities. Our legal team collaborates with medical professionals to provide you with the comprehensive care needed as part of your recovery, while also seeking to recover compensation for your medical expenses, pain, and suffering with the assistance of a dedicated semi-truck accident lawyer in Chicago.

Understanding Insurance Companies’ Tactics in Truck Accident Cases

Dealing with insurance companies can be a complex and often confusing process, particularly in the aftermath of a truck accident in Chicago. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their companies' interests, often by minimizing claims payouts. They may downplay the severity of your injuries or suggest that you were at fault for the accident. 

At Leonard Law Group, we recognize these tactics and are prepared to counter them with strong legal arguments and thorough documentation. Our priority is to pursue the full compensation you deserve without the added stress of dealing with insurance companies alone.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

After a crash, there are a few key steps to take to preserve your health and ability to pursue a claim. 

Steps to take after a truck accident include:

1. Seek medical attention: Get medical help, follow all treatment plans, and ensure your doctor keeps a detailed record of your injuries and symptoms to support your claim.
2. Call the police and document the scene: Report the crash and, if it is safe, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Gather witness contact information and write down accident details before you forget. Be sure to exchange insurance and contact information with involved drivers as well.
3. Report the accident to your insurer: Notify your insurance company, but avoid admitting fault or sharing opinions. Stick to the facts only.
4. Avoid social media: Do not post about the accident. Anything you share could be used to weaken your case.
5. Hire a Chicago truck accident attorney: Trucking companies have powerful legal teams. A skilled attorney can guard your rights and fight for the full compensation you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

What Compensation Is Available After a Truck Accident in Chicago?

You may be able to pursue compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. You can also seek damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and the ways your injuries interfere with important relationships and activities. When a family has lost a loved one in a fatal collision involving a tractor-trailer, Illinois wrongful death laws may allow claims for funeral costs, the loss of financial support, and more.

What Are Some Ways to Stay Safe Around Trucks?

Since commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier, they require more time and distance to stop, especially in poor weather or on steep roads. Avoid lingering in a truck's blind spots, leave plenty of following distance, and never cut in front of a truck or brake suddenly. Staying alert, driving predictably, and giving trucks extra space can help reduce the risk of a crash.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Chicago?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it is crucial to act quickly, as evidence may deteriorate over time, and witnesses’ memories may fade. Initiating a claim sooner rather than later allows your attorney to gather data, investigate thoroughly, and build a robust case. 

What Are Common Challenges in Truck Accident Litigation?

These challenges can include navigating complex federal trucking regulations, dealing with large corporate defendants and their legal teams, and engaging in intricate evidence processes involving vehicle maintenance records and electronic logging devices. Another common challenge is proving liability when multiple parties, such as the driver, the trucking company, or equipment manufacturers, may be at fault. 

Can I Still Recover Damages if I’m Partially at Fault in a Chicago Truck Accident?

In Illinois, you may still recover damages even if you are partially at fault for a truck accident, thanks to the state's modified comparative fault rule. Under this rule, your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you, but you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. 

Since 1996, Leonard Law Group has recovered more than $1,000,000,000  for our clients! Contact us today to learn more about your legal options after a Chicago truck collision. Spanish-speaking services available.