A serious truck accident can leave more than just physical scars. It can derail your routine, burden your finances, and leave you unsure of what steps to take next. Between medical treatment and insurance paperwork, it’s easy to overlook one crucial detail: how long you have to take legal action.
In Illinois, the law typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. It’s a firm deadline, and missing it, even by a single day, can mean you’re no longer eligible to pursue compensation through the courts.
But timelines like this aren’t always straightforward. Certain factors, like who was involved or how the injuries were discovered, can shift the legal window. That’s why having a knowledgeable legal team on your side matters. If you or someone close to you has been affected by a truck accident, Fabbrini Law Group is ready to help you navigate the process and protect your rights before time runs out.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in Illinois?
Every state sets a legal time frame for filing a lawsuit after an injury called the statute of limitations, and in Illinois, that window is typically two years for personal injury claims, including those stemming from truck accidents. The countdown usually begins on the day the crash occurs.
What does that mean in practice? If you don’t file your lawsuit within that two-year span, the court is likely to dismiss your case, no matter how strong your evidence may be. It’s a hard line, and once it’s crossed, your legal options can vanish.
That said, it’s not just about following rules. Time can affect everything: witness memories fade, evidence gets lost, and paperwork becomes harder to track down. Even if you’re still in recovery or sorting out insurance issues, understanding this deadline early can help you avoid costly setbacks.
While the law might give you two years, starting sooner allows for a stronger, more thorough case. One that isn’t rushed by the calendar.
Common Exceptions & Extensions
While Illinois law sets a two-year limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident, certain situations can extend or even delay that deadline.
For instance, if the injured party is a minor, the clock usually doesn’t start ticking until they turn 18. That gives them until age 20 to file a claim. In wrongful death cases, the two-year period typically starts on the date of death, which may differ from the date of the crash.
Claims involving government vehicles are a different matter entirely. These may require notice to the appropriate agency within six months, with stricter rules for when and how a lawsuit can proceed.
There’s also the discovery rule: if an injury isn’t immediately noticeable—say, internal damage that emerges weeks later—the timeline might begin from the date it was reasonably discovered. And in rare cases, if the at-fault party is out of state or evading responsibility, the statute can be paused through what’s known as tolling.
Because these exceptions are narrowly applied, it’s crucial to get legal guidance early. A qualified attorney can help determine how much time you actually have and make sure you don’t lose your chance to file.
How Fabbrini Law Group Helps
Recovering from a truck accident is hard enough without having to figure out legal deadlines, file paperwork, or deal with uncooperative insurance companies. That’s where having the right legal support can make all the difference.
Fabbrini Law Group helps clients take control of their situation after a serious crash. We start by listening to your story and learning the details of your case. From there, we take action. That might mean gathering medical records, collecting evidence before it disappears, or speaking with witnesses while the events are still fresh in their minds.
Our team understands the challenges that come with commercial truck accidents. These cases often involve multiple parties, tight timelines, and aggressive defense tactics. We know how to respond and what it takes to move things forward.
You do not have to figure this out on your own. Fabbrini Law Group offers free consultations, and we only get paid if we win for you. When you are ready to take the next step, we are here to help.
Don’t Miss Your Deadline: Contact Fabbrini Law Group Today to Protect Your Truck Accident Claim
Truck accidents can leave behind more than just physical damage. They can disrupt your life in ways you never expected. And while it’s easy to focus on recovery and day-to-day survival, the legal clock does not stop ticking. In Illinois, most truck accident lawsuits must be filed within two years of the crash. Missing that deadline can mean giving up your right to seek justice and compensation.
If you think you might have a case, don’t wait to find out. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong claim.
Reach out to Fabbrini Law Group today for a free consultation. We are here to help you move forward.