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Traffic Law

Truck Safety Regulations in Question | Lessons from the Illinois Tragedy

October 2, 2024

police car with red lights on responding to accident

Hazardous truck accident near Champaign, IL spurs legislation. Anhydrous ammonia leak evacuation triggers safety changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Recent Incident Spurs Legislative Action: A semi-truck accident in Teutopolis, just south of Champaign, Illinois, involving hazardous chemicals, has prompted legislators and the Illinois Department of Transportation to consider changes in construction zone regulations and truck safety regulations.

 

  • Road Safety is a Shared Responsibility: The incident underscores the importance of being prepared for road hazards, whether you're a truck driver or a personal vehicle driver. Maintaining a safe distance, staying focused on the road, and planning escape routes are crucial for preventing accidents.

Recent events just south of Champaign, IL, have recently stirred up legislators to take action. The Illinois Department of Transportation has been urged to get involved in this change as well.  

On September 29, 2023, a semi-truck was forced off the main highway onto a smaller side road that was under construction. Once on the small side road, the semi-truck was involved in a crash that released hazardous chemicals, namely anhydrous ammonia. The exposure to anhydrous ammonia led to the evacuation of Teutopolis, a town south of Champaign. This tragic incident will likely result in changes to construction zone regulations and truck safety regulations.  

Whether you are a truck driver or drive a personal vehicle, it is important to be prepared when coming in contact with any road hazard. Some unexpected road hazards can be avoided by keeping a safe distance and keeping your eyes on the road. Always thinking about being one step ahead and always contemplating the safest exit route to cause the least damage to any individual person. We must remember to be cautious of our surroundings when we drive.  

However, road hazards are not always avoidable. Sometimes, a hazard occurs within a split second. Before you begin driving, make sure your car is insured and that you also have liability insurance. Make sure your car registration is up to date.  

Laws Related to Truck Drivers in Illinois  

  • A driver must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid CDL driver's license.  
  • A truck driver may not operate a truck while intoxicated, and the blood alcohol level while operating the semi-truck must not exceed 0.04%  
  • The maximum speed for a commercial vehicle on rural interstate ways in Illinois is 65 mph.  

Laws Related to Construction Zones and Driving in Illinois  

  • Commercial vehicle drivers are required to pay extra cautious attention to the road in construction zones.
  • The commercial vehicle must slow down yield to construction vehicles and construction workers.
  • Use emergency lights when slowing down below 40 mph on a high-speed road.  

 

If you happen to cause a crash or are involved in one, give your attorney a call. You can reach O'Flaherty Law by calling 630-324-6666 to schedule a free criminal defense or DUI defense consultation.    

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Each individual's legal needs are unique, and these materials may not be applicable to your legal situation. Always seek the advice of a competent attorney with any questions you may have regarding a legal issue. Do not disregard professional legal advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
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Written by
Dominika Purcha
Factchecked by
Kevin O'Flaherty
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