April 9, 2025 | Truck Accidents in Chicago
Commercial vehicles are essential to daily business operations in Illinois and across the United States. These vehicles play a crucial role in commerce, from semi-trucks hauling goods across state lines to delivery vans bringing packages to doorsteps.
However, determining liability and legal responsibility can be complex when accidents occur involving commercial vehicles. Understanding what qualifies as a commercial vehicle is critical for accident victims seeking compensation.
What Is a Commercial Vehicle?
A commercial vehicle is any vehicle used for business purposes, particularly for transporting goods or passengers.
The legal definition of a commercial vehicle can vary depending on federal and state regulations, but generally, a vehicle is classified as commercial if:
- A business or company owns or leases it
- It is used for business operations, even if registered to an individual
- It exceeds a certain weight limit, typically over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight
- It transports multiple passengers, such as shuttle buses or taxis
- It requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate.
Federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Illinois state laws determine which vehicles fall under the commercial vehicle category.
Examples of Commercial Vehicles
Many types of vehicles can be classified as commercial, including:
- Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers: Large trucks used for hauling freight
- Delivery vans and trucks: Vehicles used by companies to deliver packages or goods
- Buses and shuttles: Vehicles used for transporting passengers for hire
- Taxis and rideshare vehicles: When actively transporting passengers or en route to pick one up
- Construction vehicles: Dump trucks, cement mixers, and other heavy machinery used at construction sites
- Food trucks and catering vehicles: Mobile businesses that transport and serve food
- Service vehicles: Tow trucks, utility trucks, and other vehicles used for providing specific services
The key factor distinguishing a commercial vehicle from a personal vehicle is its use. If used for business or commercial purposes, the vehicle likely falls under the commercial vehicle umbrella. This distinction is vital because it triggers different regulations and legal responsibilities.
Why Does the Definition Matter?
The classification of a vehicle as commercial has significant legal and insurance implications.
Stricter Safety Regulations
Commercial vehicles must adhere to FMCSA regulations, including limits on driver hours, vehicle maintenance requirements, and mandatory drug testing for drivers.
Higher Insurance Requirements
Commercial vehicles must carry higher insurance coverage than personal vehicles due to their potential for severe accidents.
Determining Liability in Accidents
Multiple parties may be liable when a commercial vehicle is involved in an accident, including the driver if negligent driving caused the crash, the employer if they failed to maintain the vehicle or improperly trained the driver, and the vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the accident.
Workers’ Compensation and Employer Liability
If an employee is driving a commercial vehicle during work hours and is involved in an accident, the employer may be held responsible under vicarious liability laws.
Because of these complexities, accident victims often face challenges in proving liability and securing fair compensation.
Navigate Complexities with a Chicago Truck Accident Attorney
Illinois highways, particularly in Chicago, see high commercial vehicle traffic. This increases the risk of accidents, especially on congested roads like Interstate 90, I-55, and I-294. If you are injured in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.
Navigating the legal complexities of commercial vehicle accidents requires the help of an experienced Chicago truck accident lawyer who understands state and federal transportation laws. There could be multiple parties involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, meaning more than just the truck driver could be held liable for your injuries.
Contact our Truck Accident Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400
Open 24/7