You drive to work every day. Maybe you live in Geneva and commute to Aurora or Batavia. You know how busy roads like I-88 and Route 38 get during rush hour. You may not realize that commercial truck drivers face serious risks daily, and those dangers don’t just affect them. They could impact you, whether you are behind the wheel or riding as a passenger.
Take a look at the three common hazards truckers face — and why they matter to everyday commuters like you.
Fatigue from long hours on the road
Truckers often drive 10–14 hours a day. Even with federal rules limiting driving time, fatigue remains a significant risk. Here’s why:
- Their reaction times are slow.
- Their judgment weakens.
- They can experience microsleeps.
These lapses lead to crashes that harm the driver and other road users.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving causes over 90,000 crashes annually in the U.S.
What does this mean for you?
Stay alert when near trucks. Give them space. Recognize signs of erratic driving, such as drifting lanes or sudden braking.
Poor weather and hazardous road conditions
Illinois sees brutal weather. Snow, rain and fog make driving dangerous even for experienced truckers.
- Semi-trucks take longer to stop.
- They are more likely to jackknife.
- Rollovers and lane skids happen more often.
These events create chaos on busy highways and put everyone at risk.
How can you stay safe?
- Keep a safe distance from large trucks.
- Avoid cutting in front of them suddenly.
- Be extra cautious during bad weather.
Understanding these risks helps you react faster and avoid danger.
Mechanical failures due to poor maintenance
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that equipment failure causes nearly 30% of large truck crashes.
Even with inspections, some trucks hit the road with faulty brakes, worn tires or broken lights.
- Rushed maintenance
- Company cost-cutting
- Overloaded cargo
You may have legal options if you’re involved in an accident caused by mechanical failure. Proving negligence can help you recover damages.
What should you do after a truck crash?
If you’re in a crash involving a commercial truck:
- Stay calm and check for injuries. Call 911 right away.
- Document the scene. Take photos and collect witness contact info.
- Do not admit fault at the scene.
- Contact a personal injury attorney who handles truck accidents.
An accident can leave you reeling not just from injuries but also from medical debts. A personal injury attorney can help you recover compensation and protect you from financial ruin.
Stay informed. Stay safe.
Knowing what truckers face helps you drive smarter. The better you understand these risks, the safer you become on Illinois roads.
