Harvard, IL (June 2, 2025) – A serious crash involving a sport-utility vehicle and a semi-trailer truck occurred Sunday afternoon near Harvard, Illinois, northwest of Chicago. The incident was reported at approximately 2:37 p.m. at the intersection of Rt 173 and Crowley Rd in unincorporated Harvard.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. The male driver of the SUV was pinned inside the vehicle after it left the roadway and came to rest in a wooded area. Firefighters from the Harvard Fire Protection District quickly extricated the man and called for support from a nearby fire agency and a medical helicopter.
The injured driver was removed from the SUV within ten minutes and airlifted to Javon Bea Hospital–Riverside in Rockford with serious injuries. The female driver of the Walmart semi-truck was not injured in the incident.
Authorities closed the roadway for approximately two hours to allow for emergency operations and scene investigation. The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office is currently leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.
Our thoughts are with the injured driver and all those impacted by this incident.
Large Vehicle Crashes and Rural Road Dangers in Illinois
Crashes involving semi-trucks and passenger vehicles are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight disparity. On rural routes like Rt 173 near Harvard, the combination of high travel speeds, limited shoulder space, and wooded terrain can lead to severe outcomes when a vehicle leaves the roadway.
Entrapment situations, like the one faced by the SUV driver in this crash, are not uncommon in such environments. Rapid extrication and access to emergency air transport are crucial to improving outcomes in these time-sensitive incidents.
According to Illinois traffic data, rural roads account for a substantial portion of serious injury and fatal crashes, despite having lower overall traffic volumes. When large commercial vehicles are involved, the risk of extensive damage and life-threatening injuries increases dramatically.
For victims and families, post-crash recovery includes not just physical rehabilitation but also navigating medical costs, lost income, and insurance procedures. Understanding one’s rights and pursuing legal guidance can provide a clearer path toward recovery and justice.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
