Knox County, IL – Fatal Semi Crash at US-34 & IL-167

Knox County, IL (December 2, 2025) – State police and local deputies responded to a deadly crash north of Wataga on Monday afternoon, December 1. The collision happened near the intersection of United States Highway 34 and Illinois Route 167 at about 2:49 p.m. 

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Fatal Semi Crash at US-34 & IL-167

Reports say a semi truck struck a gray Kia sedan. Investigators confirmed that one person died at the scene.

Officers secured the area while crews worked to document evidence and assist those involved. Authorities have not released the identity of the person who died. They also have not shared what caused the semi truck and sedan to collide.

Police confirmed the investigation under this deadly crash remains ongoing .

Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the person who lost their life in this crash. 

Truck Crashes in Illinois

Crashes involving semi trucks often lead to the worst outcomes. These vehicles weigh far more than a passenger car, and they need much more space to stop. When a collision happens at highway speeds, the people inside smaller cars face the greatest risk. 

Rural highways can be especially dangerous because drivers may not expect sudden slowdowns, turning traffic, or large trucks entering and leaving the roadway.

Several factors raise the odds of deadly truck wrecks in areas like Knox County:

  • Driver fatigue during long shifts
  • Distraction inside the cab, including phones or navigation systems
  • Speeding or following too closely for the truck’s stopping distance
  • Poor visibility at intersections or in changing weather
  • Mechanical failures, such as brake or tire problems

When a death occurs, a wrongful death claim may help recover damages tied to medical bills, burial expenses, future earnings, and the loss of companionship. Every case depends on the facts, so a careful investigation matters. Acting quickly can also help preserve key records like driver logs, dash camera footage, and inspection reports.

After a fatal truck crash families may face funeral costs, lost income, and unanswered questions about what happened. A wrongful death lawyer can step in early to protect the family’s rights, gather evidence, and deal with insurance companies. In many cases, more than one party may share fault. That can include the truck driver, the trucking company, a maintenance provider, or a business that loaded the trailer.

If your family has been touched by a serious truck crash, we are here to help you understand your options. At Ankin Law, we take these cases seriously and fight for answers. 

Call Ankin Law at (844) 600-0000 for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the next steps.

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
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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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