A crash involving a garbage truck and two passenger vehicles in Will County left two people dead and four others injured Thursday morning. According to Illinois State Police, the crash occurred around 11:19 a.m. near Offner Road and Route 45. Authorities have not yet released details about what caused the collision, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Whenever I hear about a crash involving a large commercial vehicle, I think about the key factors investigators need to examine to understand what happened. In this case, I have many questions about the movements of the garbage truck.
What Role Did the Garbage Truck Play in the Crash?
Garbage trucks operate differently from other commercial vehicles, often making frequent stops and navigating tight spaces. Investigators should determine whether the truck was stopped, turning, or merging at the time of the collision. If the garbage truck was maneuvering through traffic, its speed and braking distance should also be examined.
Were There Mechanical or Maintenance Issues?
Garbage trucks are subject to strict maintenance regulations due to their frequent use and heavy loads. Investigators should review whether the truck’s brakes, steering, or other safety systems were in proper working order.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
Authorities should examine the garbage truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, dashcam footage, and witness statements to determine how the crash unfolded. Investigators may also look at traffic signal data, skid marks, and roadway conditions to see if external factors contributed to the collision. They might even want to look at the garbage truck driver’s cell phone data to see if distraction was a potential factor.
Why Asking These Questions Is Important
At this stage, there are more questions than answers about what led to this deadly crash. Understanding whether driver actions, lack of vehicle maintenance, or other factors contributed to the collision is important. In my experience as a truck accident attorney, I’ve found that commercial vehicle crashes often require a deeper investigation to understand exactly what happened.