Truck accidents can cause serious damage in seconds. When you’re on the road, it helps to understand why these crashes happen so you can spot the risks around you. Knowing what causes truck accidents can also help if you’re ever involved in one.
Driver fatigue plays a major role
Long hours behind the wheel wear drivers down. Even with federal limits on drive time, many truckers push through fatigue to meet tight deadlines. In Illinois, truck drivers must follow both federal and state regulations that limit how long they can drive without rest. Tired drivers have slower reflexes and may even fall asleep at the wheel. This risk increases overnight when the body naturally wants to rest.
Distracted driving leads to errors
Truck drivers may eat, text, or adjust devices while driving. Any of these actions can take their eyes off the road for too long. At high speeds, even a few seconds of distraction can mean missing a car braking or swerving into another lane. Illinois law bans texting while driving and restricts the use of handheld devices for commercial drivers. Distractions are one of the top causes of rear-end collisions involving large trucks.
Improper maintenance causes mechanical failures
Some crashes happen because of worn-out brakes, bald tires, or broken lights. Trucking companies and drivers must regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles. When they skip this step, parts can fail and accidents follow. Illinois law holds commercial carriers responsible for keeping their trucks in safe condition. A poorly maintained truck may not stop in time or may jackknife, endangering everyone nearby.
Speed and size increase crash risk
Trucks need more time and space to slow down. When drivers speed, they can’t react in time to traffic changes. The sheer weight of a truck makes any collision more dangerous. In Illinois, exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions breaks the law and increases the chance of serious injury.
Understanding the risks can keep you safer
Knowing the leading causes of truck crashes helps you stay alert and cautious. Watch for signs of unsafe truck driving and give large vehicles plenty of space. These steps can reduce your chance of getting hurt on the road.