Illinois Hotspots for Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are a significant concern on Illinois roadways, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Understanding the specific highways and intersections where these accidents frequently occur, along with the contributing factors, is crucial for developing effective safety measures. This comprehensive blog delves into the most dangerous roads and intersections in Illinois concerning truck accidents, supported by recent statistics and insights.

Overview of the Danger of Truck Accidents in Illinois

In 2022, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recorded a total number of 298,347 motor vehicle crashes. While large trucks account for a smaller percentage of total vehicles on Illinois roads, their involvement in severe accidents is disproportionately high compared to cars due to their size and weight. Specifically, there were 1,147 fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois in 2022, resulting in 1,268 deaths. Of these fatalities, 167 involved semi-trucks, highlighting the significant impact of truck-related accidents on overall road safety.

High-Risk Highways in Illinois for Truck Accidents

Several highways in Illinois have been identified as particularly hazardous for truck accidents:

• Interstate 57 (I-57): I-57 stands out as one of the most dangerous highways in Illinois, with 39 fatalities recorded during the summers from 2015 to 2017. This interstate serves as a major corridor for commercial trucking, connecting Chicago to southern Illinois and beyond, leading to high volumes of truck traffic. The combination of heavy traffic and high speeds contributes to the elevated risk of accidents.
• Interstate 55 (I-55), Stevenson Expressway: Connecting Chicago and St. Louis, I-55 saw 37 fatal incidents during the same period. As a major truck route, it is frequently the site of severe accidents. The high volume of commercial vehicles, coupled with complex traffic patterns near urban areas, increases the likelihood of collisions.
• Interstate 80 (I-80): Running east-west across the state, I-80 is another critical route for freight movement. Its heavy truck traffic, especially near interchanges with other major highways, contributes to a higher incidence of accidents. Specific data on fatal crashes along I-80 indicate a significant number of incidents involving large trucks, underscoring its reputation as a high-risk area.
• Interstate 90 (I-90), Kennedy Expressway: As one of the busiest highways in the nation, I-90 experiences substantial truck traffic, particularly in the Chicago metropolitan area. The combination of congestion, frequent lane changes, and merging traffic creates conditions conducive to accidents. Historical data indicates a notable number of truck-related crashes on this route.

Dangerous Intersections in Illinois

According to American Auto Insurance, a couple of intersections in Illinois have been identified as particularly hazardous for drivers, with a significant amount of trucking accidents:

• Stony Island Avenue and South Chicago Avenue in Chicago: This intersection has been highlighted as one of the most dangerous in the state, with a high frequency of accidents involving large vehicles. The complex traffic patterns and heavy commercial traffic contribute to its risk profile.
• 95th Street and Western Avenue in Chicago: Known for its high traffic volume, this intersection has seen numerous accidents, including those involving trucks. The combination of commercial establishments and heavy vehicle movement increases the likelihood of collisions.
• Route 83 and 75th Street in Willowbrook: This suburban intersection experiences significant truck traffic due to nearby industrial areas, leading to a higher incidence of accidents. The mix of local and through traffic, along with multiple lanes, adds to its complexity and risk of serious crashes.

Contributing Factors to Truck Accidents

Several factors contribute to the high incidence of truck accidents on Illinois highways and intersections:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines, leading to long hours behind the wheel. Despite federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limiting driving time, fatigue remains a leading cause of truck accidents. A drowsy driver might miss a lane change or fail to brake in time, triggering a devastating 18-wheeler accident.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: In 2021, data showed that driving more than 55 miles-per-hour was a contributing factor in 41.4% of fatal truck accidents, compared to 29% of crashes involving passenger vehicles only. Exceeding speed limits reduces the ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Both truck drivers and passenger vehicle drivers engaging in activities that divert their attention from the road, such as using mobile devices, have been major contributors to accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Only 4% of fatal truck accidents were caused by factors related to the vehicle itself, whether a defect, improper loading, or some other issue outside of the truck driver’s control. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety standards are crucial to prevent such incidents.
• Weather Conditions: Illinois’ diverse weather, including harsh winters, can create hazardous driving conditions, contributing to trucking accidents. Snow, ice, and fog can significantly reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the risk of accidents, especially jackknife accidents.

Analyzing the timing of truck accidents can provide insights into when they are most likely to occur:

• Time of Day: Data from the Illinois Department of Transportation indicates that the greatest number of A-injury crashes occurred on Saturdays, with the second-largest number on Fridays. This pattern suggests that weekends, particularly evenings and nights, are periods of increased risk for severe accidents involving trucks.

Impact of Truck Accident Hotspots on Road Safety and Recommendations

The concentration of truck accidents in specific areas here in Illinois highlights the need for targeted safety interventions:

• Enhanced Enforcement: Increasing law enforcement presence on high-risk highways like I-57 and I-290 can deter speeding and distracted driving behaviors.
• Driver Education: Implementing educational programs focusing on the dangers of distracted and fatigued driving can promote safer driving practices among truck drivers.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Upgrading road designs, improving signage, and enhancing lighting in high-accident zones can mitigate accident risks.
• Technological Solutions: Encouraging the use of advanced driver-assistance systems in trucks, such as lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, can help prevent serious accidents.

Contact the Top-Rated Illinois Truck Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been in a truck accident at one of these dangerous hotspots, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath alone. With over 90 years of combined experience, our award-winning Naperville semi-truck accident attorneys are here to help. Contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation today and learn how you can get the compensation you deserve.