Joliet, IL – Fatal Semi-Truck Crash with Injuries at Rte 53 & Dollar Tree Ln

Joliet, IL (October 3, 2025) – A tragic accident claimed one life and left a child seriously injured on Wednesday, October 1. 

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Fatal Semi-Truck Crash with Injuries at Rte 53 & Dollar Tree Ln

The crash happened at about 10:22 p.m. near the intersection of Route 53 and Dollar Tree Lane. Police reported that a 58-year-old man driving a Volvo semi-tractor was turning left from Dollar Tree Lane onto northbound Route 53. At the same time, a 40-year-old Wilmington man was driving a Dodge Dart southbound on Route 53.

The Dodge collided with the trailer of the semi and ended up beneath it. The Dodge driver died at the scene. His identity has not yet been released. A 2-year-old boy, secured in a car seat in the back of the Dodge, sustained serious injuries. Emergency crews rushed him to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to this fatal crash.

Our deepest condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones, and we wish the injured child a full recovery.

Truck Accidents in Illinois

Semi-truck accidents in across Illinois are often devastating because of the size and weight of commercial vehicles. When a passenger car collides with a large truck, the people in the smaller vehicle usually suffer the most serious injuries. Sadly, these crashes can lead to long-term consequences for families, including medical expenses, emotional trauma, and financial hardship.

Truck accidents often happen at busy intersections. These areas can be particularly dangerous because of frequent turns, heavy traffic, and reduced visibility at night. Drivers of both passenger cars and trucks must remain cautious and alert.

Victims of truck accidents may face:

  • Extensive medical bills for emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation
  • Loss of income when injuries prevent them from working
  • Emotional and psychological suffering caused by trauma or loss
  • Funeral and burial expenses in cases of wrongful death

In situations like this recent crash, families not only grieve the loss of a loved one but also face the challenge of supporting injured survivors. Legal options may include pursuing compensation through insurance claims or filing a lawsuit against a negligent driver or trucking company. These steps can help cover expenses and provide some measure of justice.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a fatal truck accident, speaking with a wrongful death  lawyer can make a difference. An attorney can investigate the cause of the crash, gather evidence, and fight for fair compensation.

At Ankin Law, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can feel. We are here to guide you through the process and protect your rights. 

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a serious accident in Illinois, contact Ankin Law today at (844) 600-0000 for a free consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and help you move forward.

Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.

Chicago personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney Howard Ankin has a passion for justice and a relentless commitment to defending injured victims throughout the Chicagoland area. With decades of experience achieving justice on behalf of the people of Chicago, Howard has earned a reputation as a proven leader in and out of the courtroom. Respected by peers and clients alike, Howard’s multifaceted approach to the law and empathetic nature have secured him a spot as an influential figure in the Illinois legal system.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Illinois Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: Illinois State Bar Association, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois
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