A two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle sent two people to the hospital on Saturday morning in Iroquois County, Illinois. According to Illinois State Police, the collision occurred around 10:26 a.m. on US Route 45/52 near County Road E 2700N. The impact caused the passenger vehicle to roll over, coming to a stop on its side. At least one of the two injured individuals reportedly sustained serious injuries.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this with few details, I often have many questions about the cause. Semi-trucks operate very differently from passenger vehicles, and even a small miscalculation can lead to severe consequences. That’s why I always wonder whether truck drivers were following proper safety procedures and whether their equipment was in good working order.
What Caused the Crash?
When a semi-truck is involved in a crash that results in a vehicle rolling over, several factors need to be examined. Investigators should determine whether the truck was following too closely, if sudden braking was involved, or if the truck driver misjudged the distance between vehicles. Large commercial trucks require much more stopping distance than passenger cars, so if the semi was traveling too fast for conditions or failed to maintain a safe following distance, it may have contributed to the crash.
Was the Semi-Truck Properly Maintained?
Mechanical failures can also play a role in collisions like this. Investigators should inspect the truck’s braking system, tires, and steering components to determine whether a mechanical defect or failure contributed to the crash. A truck with poorly maintained brakes or worn-out tires may not have been able to stop in time or could have caused the driver to lose control. Reviewing maintenance logs and inspection records could provide insight into whether the truck was in proper working condition.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To get a full picture of what happened, investigators should analyze the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, which can provide crucial details such as speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash. Additionally, dashcam footage, driver logs, and witness statements could help clarify whether driver error, distraction, or fatigue played a role.
Why Even Ask These Questions?
Semi-truck crashes often involve serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. Understanding whether driver behavior, truck maintenance, or other factors contributed to this crash is essential in providing answers to those affected. In my experience as a truck accident attorney, these investigations often reveal factors that aren’t immediately apparent but are crucial in understanding the full scope of the crash.