I-80 Truck Accident Lawyer

Chicago I-80 Truck Accident Law Firm

Interstate 80 (I-80) is a critical artery for commercial trucks traveling across Illinois. It connects major cities and facilitates the movement of goods across the country. However, the high volume of traffic, including large trucks and passenger vehicles, increases the risk of serious accidents. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in an I-80 truck accident, our Chicago semi-truck accident attorneys are here to help. Our law firm has decades of experience representing accident victims throughout Cook County and Illinois, recovering millions in compensation for those affected by truck accidents. Based in Chicago, we offer statewide representation and a free consultation to discuss your case.

Understanding I-80 and Its Significance

I-80 stretches approximately 163.52 miles across Illinois, entering from Iowa near Rapids City and exiting into Indiana at Lansing. As part of a coast-to-coast route that begins in San Francisco, I-80 connects Illinois to a broader national freight network. 

Within the state, it passes through key areas such as East Moline, LaSalle, Joliet, and the southern suburbs of Chicago. Known for its heavy freight traffic, I-80 is a critical corridor for commercial trucks moving goods across the country. Its combination of urban congestion and rural stretches contributes to varied traffic patterns and frequent truck accidents.

Major Intersections and Connecting Routes on I-80

Several critical intersections along I-80 contribute to its heavy traffic and potential for accidents:

• I-55: A major north-south route intersecting in Joliet.
• I-57: Connecting in the southern suburbs of Chicago.
• I-294 (Tri-State Tollway): A key bypass around Chicago.
• I-355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway): Serving the western suburbs.
• US Route 6: Runs parallel to I-80 in several areas.

These intersections often experience congestion, especially during peak hours and in construction zones, increasing the likelihood of I-80 truck accidents.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents on I-80

The stretch of I-80 across Illinois sees constant movement of commercial trucks, large trucks, and passenger vehicles. With that level of traffic, it’s no surprise that I-80 truck accidents continue to be a major safety concern. These collisions often lead to catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and complicated legal claims that require immediate attention from a truck accident lawyer.

Driver Fatigue

Long-haul routes like I-80 put pressure on truck drivers to meet strict delivery deadlines, often at the expense of proper rest. Many truck accidents occur because a truck driver remains behind the wheel beyond legal driving limits, in violation of federal Hours of Service regulations. When trucking companies push unrealistic schedules or fail to monitor logbooks, they may share responsibility for any resulting crashes. An I-80 truck accident lawyer can investigate these violations to help establish liability.

Distracted Driving 

Truck drivers often rely on GPS devices, dispatch systems, and mobile phones to communicate and navigate. Even a brief glance away from traffic can lead to a devastating I-80 truck accident involving multiple vehicles.

Our truck accident attorneys uncover evidence of distracted driving through truck data, cell phone records, and dash cams. These tools play a key role in proving negligence after a commercial vehicle crash. 

Speeding in Construction Zones 

I-80 regularly undergoes maintenance, especially near major cities like Joliet. Speeding near work zones is a leading cause of I-80 truck accidents, and drivers who ignore posted signage may be held accountable in a truck accident case.

Mechanical Failures 

Truck accidents caused by mechanical issues can result in severe injuries. Faulty brakes, worn tires, and steering malfunctions may stem from poor maintenance, ignored inspections, or defective parts. In many cases, these failures occur at high speeds, which leaves little time for other drivers to react.

Trucking companies are legally obligated to maintain their fleet of semi-trucks. When corners are cut, accidents happen. Involving a truck accident lawyer early helps preserve vehicle components for inspection, which can be critical when determining liability.

Improperly Loaded Cargo 

Semi-trucks traveling on I-80 carry everything from retail goods to industrial equipment. When that cargo is loaded incorrectly, the entire vehicle is at risk of tipping or jackknifing.

These crashes can affect multiple passenger vehicles at once, especially in heavy traffic. A thorough investigation may reveal that a third-party loading company contributed to the accident by failing to follow safety protocols. Truck accident blog posts often highlight these preventable errors as a growing concern in the freight industry.

Poor Weather Conditions 

Snow, ice, fog, and rain reduce visibility and create slick pavement, common hazards during Illinois winters. Even experienced truck drivers can lose control when driving too fast for conditions or failing to maintain proper following distance.

Big semi-trucks need more time to stop, especially when fully loaded. When a truck accident occurs in bad weather, the key issue becomes whether the driver took reasonable precautions. An I-80 truck accident lawyer uses black box data and external factors to evaluate how conditions contributed to the crash.

Drunk Drivers

Alcohol use behind the wheel of commercial vehicles can have deadly consequences. In 2019, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that 2.0% of large truck drivers in fatal crashes had a BAC of 0.08% or higher. Even minimal impairment can lead to serious errors in judgment and delayed reactions, especially on busy highways like I-80. When a truck driver is under the influence, both the driver and the trucking company may be held responsible.

Determining Liability in an I-80 Truck Accident

Establishing fault after a truck accident often requires looking beyond the immediate crash. Multiple entities may have played a role in what happened. Identifying each responsible party helps build a stronger case for compensation and reveals where safety protocols may have failed.

Potentially liable parties include:

• Truck Drivers: They must remain alert, follow traffic laws, and handle the vehicle responsibly under varying conditions. 
• Trucking Companies: Trucking companies are expected to keep their fleet in working order and confirm that drivers are properly trained and licensed. 
• Cargo Loaders: Secure cargo placement is critical for balance and braking performance. If a load shifts due to poor securing methods, it can lead to serious outcomes.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: When defective components like brakes, tires, or steering systems cause a failure, the company that produced those parts may bear legal responsibility for the resulting damage.

Our experienced truck crash lawyers gather supporting records, review driver logs, and analyze the truck’s black box to uncover the full story. Witness statements and onboard monitoring systems also help us connect the dots and pursue action against the at-fault party.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you’re involved in a truck accident on I-80, follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated. Traumatic brain injuries, for example, can start with minor symptoms. 
2. Call 911: Report the accident and request assistance.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any skid marks.
4. Exchange Information: Collect contact details from all involved parties and witnesses.
5. Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit liability at the scene.
6. Consult an Accident Lawyer: Before speaking with insurance adjusters, seek legal advice.

These steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your truck accident case.

How Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers Help Truck Accident Victims

Our law firm is dedicated to supporting victims through every step of their recovery. We offer:

• Free Case Evaluation: Discuss your case without any financial obligation.
• Thorough Investigation: Gathering all necessary evidence to build a strong case.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Aiming for a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
• Litigation: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to recover compensation.

Our experienced truck crash lawyers understand the complexities of the trucking industry and are committed to holding negligent parties accountable.

Compensation After Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks

Crashes involving commercial trucks often lead to significant financial and medical consequences. Our law firm helps injured individuals and families recover what they’re owed after devastating incidents. Depending on the severity of the injuries and losses, compensation may include:

• Ongoing care for major issues, such as a traumatic brain injury;
• Treatment and rehab for soft tissue injuries;
• Costs of physical therapy and mobility support;
• Funeral and burial costs after a fatal crash;
• Damages that reflect fair compensation for pain, suffering, and long-term impact.

Our law firm builds every case to reflect the full scope of harm our clients have experienced.

Contact an I-80 Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation Today

If a semi-truck or other commercial vehicle accident happened on I-80, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Illinois law imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, making timely action essential. 

Our Chicago personal injury law firm offers a free evaluation and discusses your legal options. Let our experienced truck crash lawyers help you navigate the legal process and work towards securing the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (888) 424-5757 or use our online form to speak with a lawyer.

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.