On Thursday afternoon, two semi-trucks collided on the northbound side of I-57 in Coles County, Illinois, leading to the closure of all northbound lanes near milepost 190. Illinois State Police responded to the crash shortly after 1:00 p.m. Two people were transported to a local hospital with injuries. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the collision.
When two commercial vehicles crash into each other, I always want to know what factors were involved. Accidents like this can be incredibly serious due to the size of each vehicle.
Could Driver Fatigue or Inattention Have Played a Role?
Collisions between semi-trucks often occur when one driver fails to react in time to changing road conditions or the movements of surrounding traffic. Investigators will likely look into how long each driver had been on the road and whether they were in compliance with hours-of-service regulations. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), cell phone records, and dash camera footage can all help determine if fatigue or distraction contributed to the crash.
Was There a Mechanical Failure?
In a crash involving two large trucks, mechanical issues like brake failure or tire blowouts could have serious consequences. Inspectors should examine both vehicles’ brake systems, tires, and steering components, as well as maintenance records, to rule out or confirm whether a defect contributed to the impact.
What Evidence Can Help Determine What Happened?
To better understand what led to the collision, investigators should review dash camera footage, ECM (Engine Control Module) data, and statements from both drivers and any eyewitnesses. ECMs can provide insight into vehicle speed, braking patterns, and sudden mechanical issues in the moments before the crash.
Why Getting the Full Picture Requires Investigation
When two commercial trucks collide on a major highway, it raises serious questions about how it could have been avoided. A detailed investigation into driver behavior, vehicle condition, and other contributing factors is necessary to determine what happened and why.