Five Reasons Why Truck Accidents Occur on I-290
Truck accidents on Illinois Interstate I-290 are a significant concern, posing serious risks to the safety of drivers and passengers who frequently use this major transportation route, also known as the Dwight D. Eisenhower Expressway. These accidents often result in severe injuries and property damage. If you were involved in a truck accident on I-290, you need to hire a ready and willing lawyer to fight aggressively to defend your rights and interests.
Here Are the Five Causes of Truck Accidents on I-290
- High traffic volume and congestion – Interstate 290 experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak rush hours. The increased number of vehicles, including passenger cars and commercial trucks, can lead to congestion and traffic jams. In such situations, trucks may attempt to change lanes or maneuver through traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents. When traffic congestion is combined with aggressive driving or speeding, the risk of collisions involving trucks escalates significantly.
- Driver fatigue and hours of service violations – Truck drivers are subject to federal regulations governing hours of service to prevent driver fatigue. However, some drivers and trucking companies may disregard these regulations in pursuit of meeting tight delivery deadlines. Driver fatigue can drastically impair judgment, reaction time, and overall driving performance, making accidents more likely. Violations of hours of service regulations can result in drowsy driving, increasing the risk of accidents on Interstate 290.
- Improper maintenance and equipment failure – Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles properly. Equipment failures can occur when companies fail to maintain their trucks, directly contributing to truck accidents. Brake failures, tire blowouts, malfunctioning lights, or faulty steering systems can cause a truck driver to lose control, potentially leading to a collision.
- Inattentive/distracted driving – Distracted driving is a widespread problem on many roadways in Illinois, especially busy ones like I-290. Truck drivers may engage in various activities, like texting or talking on the phone, that divert their attention from the road. Of course, this can lead to serious truck accidents.
- Lousy loading and shifting cargo – Proper loading and securement of cargo are crucial to maintaining the stability and balance of a truck. Poorly loaded or cargo that is not secure can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable or leading to cargo spills. Cargo shifts can result in the truck driver losing control and causing accidents on Interstate 290.
Contact a Schaumburg Truck Accident Lawyer
For helpful and professional legal assistance, contact the experienced Cook County truck accident lawyers with Vito & Dollenmaier Law. Call 224-539-8821 for a free consultation.