A 73-year-old man was seriously injured after his Chevrolet Cruze became trapped beneath a semi-truck in Elk Grove Village on Wednesday night. The crash occurred just before 8 p.m. in the 200 block of East Devon Avenue. According to police, the semi exited a parking lot and began turning eastbound onto Devon Avenue, crossing the path of the westbound Chevrolet, which then struck the side of the trailer. Emergency responders extricated the driver of the Chevrolet and transported him to Lutheran General Hospital in stable condition. The semi-truck driver, who was not injured, received a citation for failure to yield while turning left.
Whenever I hear about a car ending up pinned under a semi-truck, I think about the kinds of investigative details that often get overlooked. In my experience, these cases depend heavily on close inspection of the vehicles, roadway layout, and driver actions—not just what happened, but why it happened.
Was the Semi-Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
It’s important to consider whether the truck driver was fully alert and aware of their surroundings when making the turn. A lapse in attention, even for a few seconds, can lead to a failure to see oncoming traffic. Investigators will likely examine the driver’s work and rest schedule to determine if fatigue was a factor. They may also review cell phone records, in-cab electronics, or dash cam footage to evaluate whether distraction played a role.
What Kinds of Evidence Should Be Collected?
Key evidence may include dash cam footage, the semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, equipment inspections, and any surveillance video from nearby businesses. Witness statements and physical evidence from the scene—such as skid marks, impact points, and debris—will also be critical in understanding the sequence of events.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Necessary
While the citation issued to the truck driver is an important step, it’s only the beginning. A full investigation can help clarify whether the turn was unsafe due to inattention, misjudgment, or other preventable factors. In my experience, these deeper reviews often uncover overlooked details that are critical to understanding the full story—and ensuring that those affected by the crash get answers.