Chicago is no different from other major cities when it comes to traffic. You will find every type of vehicle on the roads here, including cars, bikes, and massive trucks.
People also move to Chicago every year, expanding the population. This means even more vehicles on the road. It also means that safety regulations and proper licensing are more important than ever.
Numerous factors influence road safety, but the reality is that accidents continue to devastate lives. Truck accidents, in particular, result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities.
Throughout the U.S., around 5,788 people died in truck accidents in 2021.
These accidents are a tragic reminder of why safety protocols are crucial in the country.
An Overview Of Chicago Truck Accidents
Trucks are large and heavy, so they typically cause more severe injuries and even fatalities in accidents.
Statistics provided by the FMCSA confirm this. Trucks are involved in fewer accidents, but they are responsible for more severe injuries and deaths.
It is also true that truck accidents can happen anywhere at any time. You may drive past a fatal truck crash scene on the interstate. You may also see one on a local road.
The most common factors contributing to these accidents typically involve the driver in some way. Drivers are tired, distracted, or drive too fast, giving themselves too little time to react to hazards.
CDL Licensing Requirements In Illinois
The Illinois government works hard to limit the number of truck crashes in the state. Large vehicle drivers are required to hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) before operating a commercial motor vehicle, such as a truck or bus.
Drivers who only operate within the borders of Illinois must be at least 18 years old to qualify. Those who drive interstate commercial routes must be at least 21 years old.
CDL Classes
To obtain your CDL in Illinois, you must be familiar with the following CDL classes. Your license class will depend on the type and weight of the vehicle you want to drive.
Class A CDL
If you plan to drive a combination of vehicles, you must obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Generally speaking, this means the vehicle’s gross combination weight rating must be 26,001 pounds or more.
The towed vehicle’s rating must be 10,000 pounds. So, if your vehicle is a truck trailer, it would fall into this category.
Class B CDL
You need a Class B CDL if you want to drive a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. The weight also cannot exceed 10,000 pounds; therefore, vehicles in this category include dump trucks and buses.
Class C CDL
Your vehicle may fall under Class C if it does not qualify for Class A or B. However, to qualify for a Class C CDL, your vehicle must be able to transport at least 16 passengers, including the driver. You will also require a Class C CDL if your vehicle transports hazardous materials.
Getting Your CDL In Illinois
To obtain a CDL in Illinois, you must follow specific steps. First, you should obtain your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). If you have a CLP, you can practice driving a large vehicle while a licensed CDL holder supervises you.
You must also pass your skills or driving test at least 14 days after getting a Class 1 or 2 license.
Furthermore, you must provide a medical examiner’s certificate that confirms your physical capability to operate a commercial vehicle.
You must provide proof of legal presence, a valid driver’s license, and the necessary fees.
What Are The Legal Consequences Of Truck Accidents?
You may be liable for the victim’s losses if you cause an accident while driving a truck.
However, it is not always easy to determine whose fault a truck accident is. If you were fatigued or distracted at the time of the accident, the blame may be attributed to you. The same applies if you were driving under the influence or speeding.
If none of these scenarios apply, your employer may be to blame for the accident. This is especially true if your employer neglected to train you properly or to maintain your truck.
If your employer regularly forces you to exceed your Hours of Service limit, they may be held accountable for any accidents.
Sometimes, a truck manufacturer or local municipality may be held responsible for a truck accident. For instance, the manufacturer may be responsible for a malfunction or breakdown because of a lack of maintenance. A municipality may be to blame if the broken road infrastructure contributed to the accident.
What Happens If You Violate Truck Safety Or CDL Requirements
You may face criminal charges if you are negligent and cause an accident. The accident victim must prove you were negligent, but it may be easier if you were speeding or distracted.
You may also have a wrongful death case filed against you if a victim dies in or after the accident.
Your commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be suspended or revoked if you violated federal or state regulations during the accident. Your employer may also have to pay a fine.
Additionally, your employer may pay more for truck insurance, and you will likely do the same. The insurer may also deny insurance claims after an accident.
Regulations Can Help Reduce Severe Truck Accidents
As a truck driver, you must get the correct license and stick to all the necessary safety regulations. These include the rules implemented by your employer.
Illinois law does not give leeway when it comes to testing and CDL licenses. It is one of the only ways to cut down on human error on the road.
Your Actions Impact Victims And Their Communities
If you cause an accident, it won’t only affect you. The victims, their loved ones, and their community will be most affected.
You can prevent this situation by attending the necessary training and accepting support.
Chicago will always have a high volume of vehicles on the road, and your truck will be one of them. Therefore, the risk of a major accident can never be eliminated.
Still, if you follow the rules, you can play your part in reducing this risk.