Chicago is one of the busiest cities in the U.S. As of 2025, there are over 2 million people living in this city, with over 1 million registered vehicles plying the roads.
This city isn’t just a place where trucks travel through; it’s a major hub for freight, with countless trucks moving goods across the country.
Truck accidents in Chicago happen for different reasons, but they usually lead to serious problems, like traffic delays or even injuries. There are highly competent truck accident attorneys in Chicago who specialize in getting truck accident victims maximum compensation. So be sure to reach out if you ever find yourself a victim.
Why Do Truck Accidents Happen in Chicago?
Here are some of the main reasons these accidents happen:
Size and Weight of Trucks
Trucks are massive compared to other vehicles on the road, which means they require more time and space to stop or change direction. In areas like downtown Chicago or near busy intersections, a truck’s size can be a serious problem, especially when drivers aren’t able to maneuver easily in tight spaces.
Tire Blowouts and Mechanical Issues
One of the most common causes of truck accidents is equipment failure, especially with tires and brakes. Truck drivers rely on their vehicles to be in top shape, but sometimes mechanical issues can crop up unexpectedly.
A tire blowout or a brake malfunction, especially when driving at high speeds on highways like the Eisenhower or Stevenson Expressways, can cause a truck driver to lose control. In busy traffic, this can lead to chain-reaction accidents.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are often on the road for long hours, sometimes exceeding the recommended driving limits. As fatigue sets in, reaction times slow down, and decision-making becomes impaired.
Driver fatigue is a significant factor in accidents, particularly on long stretches of highways where drivers may be tempted to push their limits.
Fatigue is a serious issue, and it can happen in any part of Chicago, especially on highways leading in and out of the city.
Heavy Traffic and Reckless Driving
Chicago is notorious for its traffic jams, particularly during rush hour. Drivers stuck in congestion can become frustrated, speeding or changing lanes abruptly. This can be particularly dangerous around major highways like Cicero Avenue, where truck traffic is heavy.
When cars and trucks are all packed in the same space, it creates a high-risk situation. Trucks, because of their large size, need more time and space to slow down or stop, and when other drivers fail to give them that space, accidents happen.
Distracted Driving
Just like passenger vehicles, truck drivers can be distracted by things like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting in-cabin technology.
Even though truck drivers are generally more experienced than passenger vehicle drivers, they are not immune to distractions. If a truck driver isn’t paying attention to the road, especially in urban settings with complex traffic patterns, the risk of an accident increases dramatically.
Overloading
Trucks that are overloaded with cargo are harder to control. The additional weight can affect braking time, stability, and overall maneuverability, making it easier for the truck to tip over or jackknife. Overloading is especially dangerous on the city’s busy streets and on ramps, where there’s less space to correct a mistake.
