If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Thornton, Illinois, you need an experienced attorney to fight for your rights. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we specialize in truck accident cases and are dedicated to securing the maximum compensation for victims. With our No Win, No Fee guarantee, you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Most Dangerous Roads & Highways for Truck Accidents in Thornton, IL
Thornton, located in Cook County, is home to several high-traffic roads where truck accidents frequently occur. Some of the most dangerous areas include:
- Interstate 80 (I-80) – A major trucking corridor with high-speed traffic and congestion.
- Illinois Route 83 (Torrence Avenue) – A busy roadway with heavy commercial truck activity.
- Interstate 294 (I-294) – A frequently used trucking route with accident-prone interchanges.
Truck crashes on these roads can result in serious injuries, making prompt legal representation critical.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Thornton
Truck accidents often occur due to negligence on the part of truck drivers, trucking companies, or third parties. Common causes include:
- Driver Fatigue – Truckers operating beyond legal driving limits.
- Speeding & Reckless Driving – Exceeding speed limits and aggressive driving behaviors.
- Distracted Driving – Using mobile devices or other distractions behind the wheel.
- Poor Truck Maintenance – Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures.
- Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Trucks – Cargo shifts causing rollovers and jackknife accidents.
Who is Liable for a Truck Accident in Thornton?
Determining liability in truck accidents can be complicated. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Truck Drivers – If they were fatigued, distracted, or reckless.
- Trucking Companies – For failing to train or oversee drivers properly.
- Truck Manufacturers – If defective parts contributed to the crash.
- Cargo Loaders – If improper loading caused the truck to lose control.
Illinois follows a comparative negligence law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning victims can recover compensation even if they were partially at fault, as long as their responsibility is below 50%.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Thornton
- Call 911 & Seek Medical Help – Contact emergency services and visit a nearby hospital such as Franciscan Health Hammond or UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial.
- File a Police Report – Report the accident to the Thornton Police Department or Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
- Document the Scene – Take photos, gather witness statements, and note truck details.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters – Do not accept a quick settlement without consulting a lawyer.
- Call Chicago Injury Lawyer – Early legal representation is crucial to maximize compensation.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims in Thornton
Truck accident victims may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Economic Damages – Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and rehabilitation costs.
- Non-Economic Damages – Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of quality of life.
- Punitive Damages – In cases of reckless or intentional misconduct by truck drivers or trucking companies.
How Chicago Injury Lawyer Can Help You
Our team at Chicago Injury Lawyer will:
- Investigate the Accident – Collect black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies – Ensure insurers do not lowball your settlement.
- File a Lawsuit if Necessary – Take your case to court if a fair settlement is not offered.
- No Upfront Fees – You only pay if we win your case.
Local Courts Handling Truck Accident Cases in Thornton
Truck accident claims in Thornton are typically filed at:
Cook County Circuit Court – Markham Courthouse
16501 S Kedzie Ave, Markham, IL 60428
Public Safety & Accident Prevention in Thornton
Thornton enforces strict trucking regulations to prevent accidents, including weight restrictions and designated routes. Defensive driving tips include:
- Stay clear of truck blind spots—If you can’t see the driver, they can’t see you.
- Allow extra stopping distance when driving near large trucks.
- Use caution at intersections to avoid collisions with turning trucks.
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Thornton?
Illinois law sets a two-year statute of limitations (735 ILCS 5/13-202) for personal injury claims. Acting quickly ensures better evidence preservation and case success.
How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we win your case.
What if the trucking company denies liability?
We gather evidence such as black box data, truck maintenance records, and accident reconstructions to prove fault and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes, Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault. However, your award may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
What damages can I recover in a truck accident case?
Victims may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Thornton, contact Chicago Injury Lawyer today for a free consultation.
