What should you know about truck accidents in Illinois?
Intermodal yards around Joliet, Elwood and the Chicago area feed heavy truck traffic onto I-80, I-55 and I-294. I-80 across northern Illinois and I-57 south toward Memphis carry long-haul freight, and winter weather adds jackknife and rollover risks.
Illinois tip: Rail-yard and warehouse traffic often involves multiple companies — identify every name on the truck and trailer.
Who may be responsible for a truck accident in Illinois?
Liability in a truck crash can extend beyond the driver to the companies behind the truck. In Illinois, that can include the truck driver, the trucking company (motor carrier), the cargo shipper or loader — depending on who caused the crash.
Under Illinois's 51% bar, your truck accident recovery shrinks with your share of fault and stops only if you are found more than half responsible. Read Illinois car accident laws for the full rule.
How long do you have to file a truck accident claim in Illinois?
Generally two years for a lawsuit, counted from the date of the truck accident. Claims involving Illinois cities, counties or transit agencies can require written notice much sooner.