Who Is Liable If a Falling Object Injures Me on the Road?

 Posted on July 10, 2025 in Car accidents

You are driving through Illinois minding your own business when something unexpected happens: An object crashes onto your car from above. Whether it is debris from a passing truck, a tool dropped from an overpass, or cargo that fell off another vehicle, it can be terrifying and lead to serious injuries. You might soon find yourself asking who is responsible for your injuries, medical bills, or vehicle damage.

In Illinois, several parties could be held liable for a falling object accident, depending on how and why it happened. If you were injured, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Speak with a qualified Park Ridge, IL personal injury attorney for help protecting your rights and uncovering who should be held accountable.

What Are Common Sources of Falling Object Accidents?

Falling object incidents on Illinois roads are more common than most people realize. They can be caused by many things, including:

• Poorly secured loads on trucks or commercial vehicles

• Construction materials or tools dropped from overpasses

• Tree limbs or utility equipment falling during storms

• Equipment falling from maintenance vehicles

• Items falling off a car’s roof or from an open trunk

Even something small like a ladder or toolbox can cause devastating injuries or multi-car collisions if it hits a moving vehicle.

Who Can Be Held Liable When Falling Objects Cause Injuries on the Road?

Under Illinois law, liability is based on negligence. If someone failed to act with reasonable care and their actions caused your injuries, they may be financially responsible. Possible liable parties include:

Truck Drivers or Trucking Companies

If cargo was not properly secured, the driver or company that loaded the vehicle could be held liable under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and Illinois traffic laws.

Construction Companies or Workers

If tools or materials fell from a construction site or overpass, the contractor or site manager may be responsible for failing to secure equipment or post proper warnings.

Private Drivers

If a passenger vehicle was carrying something on its roof or in an open truck bed, and that item fell and caused a crash, the driver may be personally liable.

Government Entities

In rare cases, if a public agency’s negligence led to the incident, for example, by failing to maintain a tree or structure, a claim may be brought against the municipality or state. However, these cases are subject to strict deadlines and rules under the Illinois Court of Claims Act.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Des Plaines, IL Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were injured by a falling object while driving, speak with a Park Ridge, IL personal injury attorney at Quinn Law Group, LLC. A lawyer can obtain surveillance footage, truck inspection records, maintenance logs, or eyewitness testimony to help identify the negligent party. We are committed to holding the right people accountable. Call 847-232-7180 to schedule a free consultation and get started with the help you need.