The field of truck accident law has long been a distinct and muddle field of responsibility and liability.
Truck accidents are different from typical car crashes. The sheer size and weight of trucks mean they can cause catastrophic injuries and property destruction—especially on Aurora’s high-traffic corridors. And with state and federal regulations governing the trucking industry, these claims require specialized knowledge and swift action.
Collisions with large trucks—like 18-wheelers, semis, or commercial vehicles—can dramatically upend lives. The aftermath in Aurora, IL, is often complex: severe injuries, mounting medical bills, aggressive insurance companies, and a maze of legal responsibility. Tackling your recovery and the legal process alone can be overwhelming. That’s where an experienced Aurora truck accident lawyer steps in.
Historically it was even more difficult to hold a trucking company liable for the negligence of their drivers. Even where a truck driver made a rather serious mistake, getting to their employer, and even their insurance, could present serious legal barriers.
At Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., however, we believe that accident victims have a right to recover compensation for the injuries they suffer in a truck accident, and we will advocate aggressively on your behalf if you have been hit by a truck in Chicago or the surrounding areas.
Key Truck Accident Statistics for Illinois
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In 2024, Illinois saw 139 fatalities and 3,750 injuries linked to semi-truck collisions.
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Trucks account for nearly 4% of all accidents statewide, but are involved in up to 11% of fatal crashes.
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In one year, there were more than 13,000 truck collisions in Illinois, including many in the Aurora area.
Aurora, IL: Why This City Faces Unique Truck Accident Risks
Transportation Hub With Heavy Traffic
Aurora is among Illinois’s busiest cities, intersected by major highways like I-88, Route 31, Route 59, and Farnsworth Avenue. These routes fuel commerce but also see some of the highest frequencies of truck traffic and crash risk.
Local Hazards
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High-Risk Intersections:
Over the past eight years, intersections like Route 31 & Indian Trail (115 fatal accidents), Farnsworth Avenue & Molitor Road (108), and Eola Road & New York Street (99) have topped the list for deadly crashes. -
Industrial Expansion:
With warehouses, factories, and distribution centers expanding throughout Aurora, the daily movement of commercial trucks skyrockets—raising the likelihood of accidents, especially for drivers and visitors unfamiliar with local roads. -
Tourism and Unfamiliarity:
Attractions like the Paramount Theatre and Fox River parks invite tourists, who may find Aurora’s roadways and commercial corridors daunting, increasing their risk of serious truck collisions.
Real-World Example
On July 1, 2024, a semi-truck crashed and caught fire on I-88 at Farnsworth Avenue, closing major lanes and sending multiple people to the hospital. This crash illustrates the road-closing, life-altering potential of truck accidents in Aurora for locals and travelers alike.
Table: Most Dangerous Fatal Crash Locations in Aurora (2016-2024)
| Intersection | Fatal Accidents |
|---|---|
| Route 31 & Indian Trail | 115 |
| Farnsworth Ave & Molitor Rd | 108 |
| Eola Rd & New York St | 99 |
| Randall Rd & Sullivan Rd | 94 |
| Butterfield Rd & Kirk Rd | 84 |
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Aurora
Truck accidents can be caused by a variety of different factors. Of course, one of the most common causes of truck accidents is distracted driving, which could occur if the truck driver is using a cell phone or tablet, eating, or simply not paying attention to the road. Many truck drivers operate their vehicles while fatigued as well, hoping to get to their destination in a shorter period of time in order to reap a larger payout.
In some cases, the accident may not be from driver error, but instead may result from a piece of defective equipment within the vehicle.
Trucking accidents are frequently the result of:
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Driver fatigue:
Long shifts, tight deadlines, and pressure to deliver result in tired or asleep-at-the-wheel operators. -
Distracted driving:
Cell phones, navigation devices, or multitasking behind the wheel. -
Speeding or reckless driving:
Commercial drivers rushing to make schedules or misjudging road conditions. -
Mechanical failure:
Poor maintenance, brake failure, or tire blowouts. -
Improper loading:
Unstable, unsecured, or over-weight cargo shifting during transit, leading to rollovers or loss of control. -
Hazardous weather and poor road conditions:
Rain, fog, snow, or under-construction local roads can amplify risk.
Regardless of the cause of the accident, it is imperative that you get in contact with a professional Chicago Illinois truck accident attorney immediately for help with your case. An attorney can take a look at the specifics and help you determine who was liable for the wreck and, ultimately, from whom you should attempt to recover compensation in a personal injury case.
It is important you act fast, however, as the statute of limitations in Illinois only allows you a short period of time in which you may be able to file a case, after which you will be barred forever.
Types of Injuries and Potential Damages
Victims of Aurora truck accidents often suffer:
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Traumatic brain injuries
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Spinal cord and back injuries
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Multiple bone fractures
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Amputations and severe lacerations
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Burns or disfigurement
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Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety)
Financial tolls include current and future medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, ongoing rehabilitation, and more.
What To Do After a Truck Accident in Aurora
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Seek medical attention immediately—even for “minor” injuries.
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Call the police and report the accident. Request a copy of the police report for your records.
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Document the scene: Take photos/video of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, traffic signs, injuries, and cargo spills.
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Collect witness information: Contact details and brief statements will help clarify the facts.
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Don’t admit fault or sign anything: Wait for a full investigation and legal counsel.
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Contact an Aurora truck accident lawyer—prompt action ensures evidence is preserved and insurance companies do not lowball your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who can be held responsible for a truck accident in Aurora?
A: Liability may fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, vehicle manufacturers, or maintenance providers. Multiple entities may share fault, depending on the facts of the case.
Q: What should a visitor do after a truck accident in Aurora?
A: Out-of-town victims should take the same steps as residents—seek immediate medical care, document the accident, and consult a local truck accident attorney. You have equal rights under Illinois law to pursue compensation.
Q: Are truck accidents more dangerous than car accidents?
A: Yes. Trucks’ size and mass increase the likelihood of catastrophic harm or death in any collision. Illinois truck accidents comprise a disproportionately high percentage of fatal and incapacitating injuries.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: Truck accident claims in Illinois are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. However, certain cases against government entities may have shorter deadlines. Consulting an attorney quickly is crucial.
Q: What damages can I recover?
A: You may seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, property loss, rehabilitation, and sometimes punitive damages.
Q: Why do I need a specialized truck accident attorney?
A: Trucking companies and their insurers actively work to reduce payouts, using complex regulations and aggressive legal teams. An experienced lawyer knows how to investigate, preserve evidence, and challenge lowball settlement offers for maximum recovery.
Why Choose Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C.?
Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., is dedicated to helping truck accident victims in Aurora and across Illinois secure full and fair compensation. Clients benefit from:
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Decades of experience taking on national trucking firms
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Detailed case investigation and aggressive advocacy
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No legal fees unless your case is won
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Compassionate, client-focused service with clear, frequent communication
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an Aurora truck accident, don’t fight alone. Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. offers free consultations and only collects fees if they win your case. Get the strength and expertise you need to navigate insurance battles and complex laws—contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. today to protect your future and begin your recovery.
