Collisions with large trucks are among the most catastrophic events that can happen on Joliet’s roadways. These accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and complex legal battles. For residents and visitors alike, understanding the risks and legal landscape in Joliet, IL, is essential to staying protected and informed.
Those of us who travel by highway often take for granted exactly how many 18-wheeled cargo trucks we pass on a daily basis. We often don’t consider the danger posed by driving alongside such a massive vehicle. Many everyday expressway users don’t even notice the 14-ton trucks idling along in the middle lanes. We change lanes directly in front of these trucks, we drive for miles in their blind spots, or we even cut them off as we carry on with our own travel plans. We make all of these maneuvers without considering how long it takes for an 18-wheeler to stop or slow down or even considering the type of impact created when an 18-wheeler is involved in a collision.
Unfortunately, when an 18-wheeler does become involved in a crash on a highway or other road, it can lead to catastrophic injuries, and even death. The attorneys at Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. are standing by today to help you recover compensation if you have been injured in a truck accident, or if you have lost a loved one in such a catastrophe.
The High Stakes of Truck Accidents in Joliet
Joliet sits at a critical nexus of commerce and transportation in Illinois. With major highways like Interstate 80 and bustling industrial areas, heavy truck traffic is part of daily life. Unfortunately, this brings additional dangers to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians traveling through the area.
Recent statistics paint a sobering picture:
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Joliet averages 250–300 truck-related accidents annually, as part of over 3,200 total crashes reported in the city each year.
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In 2022 alone, there were 820 crashes causing injuries and 12 fatal crashes in Joliet. A significant number involved large commercial vehicles.
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Across Illinois, more than 13,000 truck crashes happen each year, with the state experiencing 139 fatalities and 3,750 injuries linked to truck accidents in just one recent year.
Tragically, truck accidents are far more likely to be fatal. In Illinois, trucks are responsible for nearly 10% of roadway fatal crashes, even though they make up less than 4% of vehicles involved in total collisions.
Joliet, IL: Unique Dangers and Real-World Scenarios
Why Joliet Is a Hotspot for Truck Accidents
Truck accidents may happen for a variety of reasons. The truck driver may be fatigued from driving throughout the entire night, or he may be distracted while using a cell phone, GPS, or other device.
In some cases, a truck accident may be the result of faulty equipment on the truck, such as defective tires. Or, an accident may have occurred because the cargo was not strapped down tightly enough, leading to a crash with other vehicles.
Joliet’s location and infrastructure create unique hazards:
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Major Corridors: I-80, U.S. Route 6, and local thoroughfares like Jefferson Street and Chicago Street are often congested with 18-wheelers delivering goods to railyards, warehouses, and nearby industries.
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Dangerous Intersections: City crash reports consistently cite intersections near I-80 and Briggs Street as frequent sites for multi-vehicle pileups, often involving commercial trucks.
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Heavy Tourism and Traffic: Attractions like the Rialto Square Theatre, Harrah’s Casino, and gaming venues bring visitors unfamiliar with the area, amplifying the risk of collisions with trucks at complicated intersections.
Recent Local Incidents
Truck accidents in Joliet are often front-page news:
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In December 2023, five individuals were critically injured at the intersection of South Chicago Street and McDonough Street after a sedan collided with a semi-truck when the car allegedly ran a red light.
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A multi-truck pileup on I-80 near Briggs Street resulted in highway closures and hospitalizations, with improper lane usage and excessive speed by a truck driver at the center of the investigation.
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Glue, gravel, and even industrial equipment have spilled onto city streets after truck rollovers, creating secondary hazards for days as cleanup crews work and traffic backs up for miles.
These scenarios highlight how quickly a Joliet commute—or a simple sightseeing drive—can turn dangerous when large trucks are involved.
Common Causes of Truck Crashes in Joliet
Truck accidents have unique causes and complexities:
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Driver Fatigue: Long-haul drivers often violate hours-of-service regulations, leading to slower reaction times.
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Distracted Driving: Truck operators and other drivers using phones, GPS, or on-board devices can miss stop signs and lane changes.
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Impaired Driving: Even one impaired truck driver poses a massive risk due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles.
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Improper Cargo Loading: Shifting or overloaded cargo leads to jackknifed trailers or rollovers, especially in Joliet’s hilly and curved sections.
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Mechanical Neglect: Worn brakes, blown tires, and engine failures from skipped maintenance checks routinely spark collisions.
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Adverse Weather: Rain, fog, or icy conditions on Joliet’s bridges and major roads amplify risks, especially for heavy trucks slow to brake.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Joliet
If you’re involved in a truck-related collision, take the following steps:
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Get Immediate Medical Help: Some injuries may not surface right away—always get checked by a medical professional.
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Report the Crash: Contact Joliet police and ensure the incident is documented; these reports are crucial for insurance or lawsuits.
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Gather Evidence: Photograph the scene, damaged vehicles, road signs, and anything that helps clarify what happened.
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Collect Witness Information: Eyewitnesses’ statements can be instrumental for your case.
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Do Not Accept Blame or Quick Settlement Offers: Initial insurance offers rarely reflect the full value of your claim.
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Consult a Joliet Truck Accident Attorney: Legal complexities—especially when trucking companies are involved—require prompt action and guided counsel.
Injuries and Damages from Joliet Truck Accidents
Truck accidents frequently leave victims dealing with:
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Traumatic brain and spinal injuries
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Broken bones and lacerations
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Internal bleeding and organ damage
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Permanent disability or wrongful death
The financial toll includes medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Recovering Compensation in an Accident
The first step in recovering compensation in a truck accident is determining who was liable, an action that can be facilitated with the help of an attorney at Willens & Baez. We will examine your case and highlight the liable party, whether that may be the trucker himself, the truck company, the shipping company, or even a mechanic who failed to correctly service the truck. Once we have labeled the responsible party, we can file a claim on your behalf to recover compensation.
If you have been the victim of a trucking accident we know that your life is in turmoil. We understand the fear and confusion a lawsuit can bring and we are happy to help you see your way to recovery. Contact the Joliet truck accident attorneys at Willens & Baez immediately for help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who can be held liable in a Joliet truck accident?
A: Multiple parties might be responsible—including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers. Each case must be thoroughly investigated to clarify liability.
Q: What if I am a visitor, not a resident, and injured in Joliet?
A: You have the same legal rights to seek compensation as a local. Truck accidents involving out-of-town drivers or tourists are common, and local attorneys can represent your interests regardless of your home state.
Q: How are truck accident claims different from regular car accidents?
A: Truck accidents involve greater damage, more severe injuries, and complicated liability issues due to federal and state regulations. Commercial insurance policies and corporate legal teams also make negotiations tougher.
Q: What if a truck causes a hazardous spill or fire?
A: Cleanup and secondary injuries add another layer of liability. Victims can pursue claims both for the initial collision and damages stemming from hazardous materials released in the accident.
Q: Are all truck accident injuries immediately obvious?
A: No. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, and internal injuries may appear hours or days later. Seek medical attention and keep documentation even if you feel fine initially.
Q: Do commercial trucking companies always fight accident claims?
A: Trucking companies often have aggressive defense teams. They may deny liability, delay claims, or offer unreasonably low settlements—underscoring the need for an experienced local attorney.
Why Choose Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C.?
Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. have decades of experience handling complex and high-stakes truck accident claims in Joliet and across Illinois. Their team deeply understands local accident patterns, city roads, insurance tactics, and the immense physical and emotional stress truck accident victims and families endure.
Clients choose Willens & Baez for:
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Personalized legal support from start to finish
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No fees unless your case is won
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Strong negotiation and litigation skills, going up against national trucking firms
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Prompt updates and clear communication throughout your case
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one is suffering after a Joliet truck accident, don’t go it alone. Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. offer free consultations and only get paid if you win. Protect your rights, maximize your recovery, and move forward with experienced attorneys by your side—contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. today.
