Authorities are investigating a serious crash that occurred Thursday afternoon on westbound I-80 near milepost 75 in LaSalle County, Illinois. The collision involved a semi-truck and a box truck and was reported at approximately 1:38 p.m. One individual was airlifted from the scene with injuries, and the westbound lanes of the interstate were shut down shortly after, with traffic rerouted at the exit ramp.
When two commercial vehicles collide on a major interstate, the potential for serious injuries and complex liability questions increases significantly. With limited information currently available, it’s essential that investigators take the time to fully understand what led to the crash.
Could Mechanical Problems Have Played a Role?
Investigators may want to examine whether either vehicle experienced a mechanical failure, such as brake issues, steering malfunctions, or tire blowouts. Commercial trucks undergo extensive wear and tear, and if a critical system fails while traveling at highway speeds, the consequences can be severe.
Was Either Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
Driver distraction or fatigue is another factor that may be relevant in a crash like this. Commercial drivers spend long hours on the road, and even brief lapses in attention can result in major collisions. Reviewing each driver's hours-of-service records, onboard electronic data, and cell phone usage could help determine whether fatigue or distraction was a contributing factor.
Key Evidence That Should Be Reviewed
To determine how this crash unfolded, investigators will likely rely on dashcam footage, ECM data from the trucks, physical evidence at the scene (like skid marks or impact angles), and eyewitness statements. This information will be crucial in identifying what went wrong and whether the crash was preventable.
Why Getting the Full Picture Requires Investigation
When commercial vehicles are involved in a serious crash, it's rarely a simple matter. A thorough investigation can help clarify whether this was a case of human error, equipment failure, or something else entirely. Answering those questions not only helps those affected, but also helps assign accountability where necessary.