What percentage of work zone-related accidents involve large trucks​?

Truck Accidents - June 4, 2025

If you get nervous driving through work zones, concerned that you’ll be involved in a collision with a large commercial truck, you may have good reason to be. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), one-third of all fatal crashes in work zones involve oversized vehicles.

Furthermore, according to the National Safety Council, in 2021, 6% of fatal truck crashes occurred in work zones. The study also indicated that more of these accidents occurred in rural areas than in cities. From 2022-2024, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) calculated that between 27% % and 34% of fatal work zone collisions involved large trucks. The IDOT noted that the percentage of work zone fatalities involving trucks was disproportionate to the number of crashes overall, indicating that large trucks are, indeed, a danger.

As the injured driver, you have the right to file a suit against not just the truck driver but any other parties who share liability for your injuries. Because there are so many dangerous factors that come into play in work zone accidents, it’s best to have the advice of a Joliet truck accident lawyer to guide you.

what percentage of workzone accidents involve large trucks

Why are oversized vehicle collisions more common in work zones?

Work zones are a source of frustration for almost every driver, slowing you down on your early morning commute and containing considerable distractions and dangers. In fact, several of the primary contributors to large truck crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), are present in work zones, which increases the likelihood of being involved in an injurious crash:

  • Changing speed limits: Going from the normally posted speed limit, which  could be anywhere from 40mph to 65mph, suddenly down to the typical 10-20mph speed limit in work zones can cause sudden stops and increase the likelihood of vehicles cutting off other drivers to avoid closed lanes
  • Altered traffic patterns: The shifts in lane patterns may be unpredictable, causing drivers to cross into other lanes, including oncoming traffic
  • Narrower lanes: Not all oversized vehicles can comfortably fit in narrow work zone lanes; sideswipe accidents are more likely
  • No shoulder: Limited shoulders or the use of concrete barriers can hem in vehicles, making it harder to maneuver or avoid other vehicles crossing into your lane
  • Distractions: Unexpected road closures and detours can distract drivers, as well as the presence of heavy machinery and workers. In fact, distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents

All of these factors, plus the increase in the number of oversized vehicles present, can spell danger for the drivers and passengers of smaller passenger cars.

Staying safe in Illinois work zones

Understanding the dangers that work zones pose can help you anticipate and avoid them. There are a few other ways to reduce the chance of getting into a devastating truck accident:

  • Pay attention to signs, flaggers, and detour directions, and heed all instructions
  • Adhere to the posted speed limit
  • Change lanes as early as possible when you see altered traffic patterns
  • Stay out of truck blind spots—if you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the truck driver can’t see you

Give oversized vehicles a wide berth. They require more time and space to stop, especially those carrying heavy loads. If a trucker has to suddenly slam on their brakes, they may have too much inertia to avoid a crash. And, the loads the construction trucks are carrying could dangerously shift, making an accident more likely.

Injured in a work zone truck accident?

Have you been hurt in a work zone crash involving a large truck? These accidents can lead to serious injuries and complex legal claims. You shouldn’t have to face the aftermath alone—especially when dealing with trucking companies and their insurers.

Contact Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates at (800) 985-1819 for a free consultation. Our experienced truck accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.