Crash on I-294 Near Deerfield Leaves Car Trapped Underneath Semi-Truck
On January 17, 2026, a serious accident occurred on Interstate 294 near the town of Deerfield in Lake County, Illinois. According to reports, a car collided with a semi-tractor-trailer truck, leaving the car lodged underneath the larger vehicle.

The incident happened on I-294, a major highway that runs through the northern suburbs of Chicago. Emergency responders were called to the scene and found the car trapped beneath the semi-truck. One person was transported to a nearby hospital with undisclosed injuries as a result of the crash.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the collision, but incidents where a passenger vehicle becomes trapped under a large commercial truck often involve the smaller car rear-ending or sideswiping the truck. These types of accidents can be particularly devastating due to the significant size and weight difference between the two vehicles.
Staying Safe Around Large Trucks
To help prevent these types of accidents, drivers should exercise caution and follow these safety tips when sharing the road with semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles:
- Maintain a safe following distance - allow at least 4 seconds of space between your vehicle and the truck in front of you.
- Avoid lingering in the truck's blind spots - pass quickly and safely, and don't cut in front of large vehicles.
- Be extra vigilant when changing lanes or merging, as trucks have larger turning radiuses and require more space.
- Pay attention to truck turn signals and give them plenty of room to maneuver.
- Slow down in inclement weather and be prepared for trucks to take wider turns or have longer stopping distances.
Illinois Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally 2 years from the date of the accident. This means that injured parties typically have 2 years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party or parties. It's important for victims to be aware of this time limit, as failing to take legal action within the 2-year window can result in being barred from recovering compensation.
Protecting Your Rights After an Accident
After being involved in an accident, it's common for insurance companies to quickly reach out and attempt to settle the claim. However, these initial settlement offers are often much lower than what the victim may be rightfully entitled to. Before accepting any settlement, it's crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can review the details of the case and ensure the victim's rights are protected.
Salvi & Maher: Trusted Personal Injury Attorneys
Salvi & Maher is a respected personal injury law firm with offices in Libertyville and Waukegan, Illinois. Their team of skilled attorneys has a proven track record of successfully representing clients who have been injured in a wide range of accidents, including those involving commercial trucks. Salvi & Maher works tirelessly to help their clients obtain the maximum compensation they deserve, whether through settlement negotiations or litigation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, don't hesitate to contact Salvi & Maher for a free consultation. Their experienced personal injury lawyers can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the justice you deserve.







