IllinoisTruck Inspection Blitz Finds Multiple Violations

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Car Accidents

Recently, Illinois authorities set up truck safety checks to prevent accidents. The three-day truck inspection, part of the National Roadcheck 2013 Enforcement Program, cited one truck driver with 32 violations. Inspections like these communicate safe traveling practices for truck drivers and remove unsafe vehicles from the roadways. The effort was the result of a partnership between the State of Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois State Police (ISP).

“Safety is our top priority here at IDOT and these roadside inspections will help us keep Illinois roads safe by making sure commercial trucks and buses are working properly and ensuring the drivers are following regulations,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. “We want to thank the many truck drivers who go the extra mile to do their part to be safe and would like to ask all motorists to be mindful of trucks on the roads.”

Motorists can safely share the lanes with commercial vehicles in several ways:

1. Stay alert when approaching a commercial vehicle and keep a distance of at least six seconds between your car and the larger vehicle.
2. Avoid blind spots. If you cannot see the side mirrors of a truck, odds are the driver cannot see your car.
3. Never cut off a truck. Keep a safe distance and use the proper signals to indicate the intention of your direction.
4. Be careful when passing a truck. Use slight acceleration and keep a constant speed while passing the truck.

In 2011, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reported more than four million trucks registered in Illinois. If you operate a commercial vehicle or truck, make sure that your vehicle stays travel ready and operates within established guidelines. Properly inflated tires and functioning brakes, balanced loads and correct height are safety essentials.

If you experience an accident that involves a truck, contact an Orland Park, Illinois personal injury attorney who is experienced with truck accidents. Such an attorney will be well-versed in specific rules and regulations and understand how to deal with all aspects of the case.