Experienced Legal Representation for Truck Crash Victims
Truck accidents leave a big impact on roads, families, and futures. When a semi or commercial truck is involved in a crash, injuries tend to be more severe, and the legal aftermath is more complicated. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we bring more than legal knowledge, we deliver real representation backed by over 25 years of combined experience handling serious motor vehicle accident cases across Peoria and Central Illinois.
With a former prosecutor leading our team, we understand how cases are built from both sides. We approach every case with a trial-ready mindset, standing up to large trucking companies and insurers to fight for meaningful results.
Why people work with us:
When your future is on the line, we stand prepared to defend it.
Supported by thousands of resolved injury cases and millions recovered for clients across Illinois.
Injury cases handled on a contingency basis guarantee no initial fees to begin.
Free consultations and virtual meeting options are available for your flexibility.
Fighting for truck rash victims throughout the Greater Peoria Area. Call (309) 250-1871 for a consultation, available 24/7.
Our Approach: Built for High-Impact Litigation
At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we prepare every case like we’re going to trial. That doesn’t mean every case ends up in court, but it does mean we put the work in early, from gathering black box data to securing witness statements, crash reports, and medical records. By doing so, we form a robust foundation to negotiate from strength, ensuring that every angle of your case is meticulously examined and documented.
We’re a law firm trusted with thousands of personal injury cases across Illinois. When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, especially truck-related ones, we’ve built a reputation for clear communication, courtroom readiness, and a no-nonsense approach.
Why Truck Accidents Are Different
Unlike typical car crashes, truck accidents often involve multiple layers of responsibility including drivers, employers, logistics companies, and even third-party maintenance providers. The rules are different too. Commercial drivers are held to stricter standards, and federal trucking regulations come into play.
Moreover, the size and weight of big rigs like 18-wheelers or tractor-trailers can cause catastrophic damage, making it vital to consider every contributing factor, from the truck's operational status to driver logs. Our thorough approach ensures that we uncover every detail, providing a comprehensive overview of the incident to support your claim.
We’ve handled cases involving:
18-wheelers and tractor-trailers
Delivery trucks and box trucks
Utility and construction vehicles
Agricultural trucks on rural roads
Interstate crashes involving out-of-state drivers
Car accidents often lead to serious injuries and complicated investigations. That’s where our truck accident lawyer in Peoria comes in, gathering the facts, pushing for accountability, and guarding your interests from day one.
With a background in prosecution, we know how the other side thinks—and how to build stronger defenses and smarter injury claims.
Local Experience, Proven Results
Born and raised here, we’ve handled thousands of cases across Illinois and recovered millions for clients in your community.
Trial-Ready Custom Strategy
Every case is prepared as if it’s going to court, giving you maximum leverage whether we’re negotiating or litigating.
24/7 Availability & Clear Communication
We’re always just a call away—and we make sure you’re informed at every stage of your case.
What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck crashes often trace back to one of a few recurring problems, many of which could have been avoided with better oversight or decision-making.
Some of the issues we’ve seen in past cases include:
Driver fatigue and violations of rest rules
Distracted or aggressive driving
Speeding or failure to yield
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
Poor vehicle maintenance or faulty brakes
Inadequate driver training or background checks
In every case, our goal is to understand what happened and why, so we can build a strong, detailed case that holds the right parties responsible.
Handling Insurance Companies in Truck Accident Claims
Insurance companies representing trucking firms are known for deploying aggressive defense strategies to minimize payouts. As such, it is important to have skilled legal representation that understands these tactics and how to counter them effectively. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we take proactive steps in dealing with insurers, ensuring that our clients' interests are protected at every stage. This includes challenging attempts to downplay liability and offering compelling evidence gathered through meticulous investigation and analysis.
Our approach centers on clear communication and robust negotiation, leveraging our detailed preparation and trial-ready posture to pursue favorable settlement offers. Our objective is always to maximize compensation for your injuries and damages while ensuring the legal process is as stress-free as possible for you. With our counsel, dealing with insurance companies need not be an uphill battle.
Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC After a Peoria Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial truck crash, there’s no reason to wait. The sooner we begin looking into the crash, the better we can preserve evidence and guide you through what comes next.
Call (309) 250-1871 anytime or contact us online to book a free virtual consultation. Our truck accident lawyer in Peoria, IL, can investigate your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Peoria, IL?
First, ensure your safety and the safety of any passengers. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention for any injuries. Collect evidence at the scene, including photos of the vehicles, any injuries, and road conditions. Gather information from the truck driver, including their insurance details and contact info. Note any potential witnesses. Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC as soon as possible to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable truck accident attorney in Peoria who can guide you on the next steps and preserve important evidence that can be pivotal for your claim.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to commence legal proceedings. This time limit can be critical, as delay might hinder your ability to file a lawsuit effectively. Importantly, engaging legal representation early gives your tractor trailer accident attorney in Peoria ample time to conduct a thorough investigation and build a strong case.
Why Is Choosing a Local Attorney Important for My Truck Accident Case?
Choosing a local big rig accident attorney in Peoria provides several advantages. Local attorneys are more familiar with the Peoria court systems, judges, and local procedural rules, which can improve the effectiveness of legal strategies. Additionally, understanding local traffic patterns and regional risks helps ensure a stronger presentation of your case, particularly when discussing how the accident and its impacts are understood within the local context. Lastly, proximity allows for more personalized service, easier communication, and stronger client-attorney relationships.
“The results of having them on my case were better than I could have ever imagined and the level of care and compassion I received was next to none. On top of all of that, their skills and knowledge prevented me from receiving an undeserved felony charge.”
