Back to What We DoCHICAGO TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Fighting for victims of negligent truck drivers.
Semi-trucks are larger and heavier than any other vehicles on the road. An 18-wheel tractor trailer can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds — so when crashes occur, they lead to devastating catastrophic injuries and even death. The average truck driver can travel as many as 3,000 miles per week. As a result, semi-trucks, tractor trailers and similar vehicles are on American highways around the clock. Many crashes can be attributed to driver negligence such as fatigued driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Faulty design and insufficient maintenance are also common culprits: They can lead to unsecured loads, malfunctioning brakes or tire blowouts.
Cavanagh Sorich Law Group is nationally recognized for obtaining multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients, including some of the largest settlements in Illinois history. In 2019, the firm obtained $1.5 million for the family of a man who was killed in a crash caused by a semi-truck driver who was texting and driving in a construction zone. Our attorneys previously obtained $9.75 million for a cyclist hit by a truck driver, $4.1 million for a woman struck by a Berry Electric Contracting Co. truck and $1 million for a man who suffered a traumatic injury in a truck crash. Our team has expertise in cases involving every type of truck — from Class 1 light-duty vehicles to Class 8 heavy-duty trucks. We routinely retain independent investigators and some of the best accident reconstruction experts in the nation to prove fault in negligence and wrongful death lawsuits.
About Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has obtained more than $650 million in verdicts and settlements in Illinois and across the United States. Our veteran trial attorneys are aggressive advocates who practice every facet of personal injury law and take on cases of all sizes. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win. At Cavanagh Sorich Law Group, we pride ourselves on attentive customer service and being there for families in their times of need. Our well respected, award-winning attorneys are available 24/7 for your questions and concerns. To schedule a free case evaluation, call 312-425-1900.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I was involved in a car accident?
Call the police immediately and file a police report. Even if the damage was minor, it is essential to document what happened with a law enforcement agency. Take photos at the scene.
Never admit fault. Your testimony could be used against you at a later date. While you are required to speak to police, there is no obligation to talk to another person’s attorney or insurance company. Avoid providing written or oral statements.
Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible — but don’t admit fault. Many insurance companies have rules requiring policyholders to report crashes within a certain timeframe. Check your policy to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Visit a doctor as soon as possible after the crash. Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, it is imperative that a medical professional documents your injuries.
Hire an attorney. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group’s team of veteran trial attorneys will help you obtain maximum benefits through meticulous research, proven strategy and expert testimony.
Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois has comparative negligence laws, which allow injured parties to have some degree of fault in an accident and still recover reduced damages. The amount of money recovered may be proportional to the degree to which a person is at fault. Insurance companies make determinations following interviews with witnesses and involved parties and a thorough review of the accident report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?
Under Illinois law, people have two years from the date of an accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. That timeframe drops to one year if the claim is against a municipal government, such as a city or county.