Devin Smart Killed In Collinsville Semi-Truck Accident

Personal Injury - January 2, 2025

Devin Smart, of St. Louis, Died In Madison County Tractor Trailer Truck Accident on Interstate 55 Near Mile Marker 8.2 In Collinsville

Devin Smart Killed In Collinsville Semi-Truck Accident

COLLINSVILLE, ILLINOIS (January 2, 2024) – A 26-year-old man identified as Devin Smart has tragically died in a Collinsville semi-truck accident on Interstate 55.

Madison County officials are saying that the accident took place around 11:00 p.m. on January 1. According to the county coroner, Devin Smart exited his vehicle by mile marker 8.2.

At some point after exiting his vehicle, he was hit by the tractor trailer. Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.

Despite lifesaving measures, Devin Smart was pronounced dead at the scene. A full investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time.

Liability for Collinsville Semi-Truck Accidents

Taller cars and trucks pose a unique hazard to pedestrians. According to National Public Radio, “Vehicles with higher front ends and blunt profiles are 45% more likely to cause fatalities in crashes with pedestrians than smaller cars and trucks, according to new research published Tuesday by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.” Semi-truck drivers should take a number of actions in order to prevent collisions.

  • Semi-truck drivers should check their blind spots before making turns.
  • Semi-truck drivers should slow down in areas with pedestrian traffic.
  • Semi-truck drivers should take periodic breaks throughout the course of the day.

Semi-truck drivers have a legal obligation to exercise a great deal of care in order to avoid pedestrians. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-1003.1, every driver must exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian. They must also use their horns when necessary and exercise the proper precautions to avoid colliding with any child or obviously confused person. When a semi-truck driver fails to slow down to avoid a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.

Semi-truck accidents are often very complex events. There could be numerous liable parties for any incident. This includes the company that loaded the truck. It may also include the company that is responsible for maintaining a truck. In many cases, the company that owned or operated a truck could be liable if one of their drivers was negligent. It is important that the circumstances of any semi-truck collision are properly investigated.

  • The event data recorder (EDR) of the truck involved should be sought.
  • Surveillance footage related to the crash should be reviewed.
  • Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
  • The truck driver’s logbook should be examined.

Truck drivers are required to get a commercial license. They are held to a higher standard than other drivers in terms of safety. However, it is relatively common for truck drivers to operate their vehicles while fatigued. Truck companies may push their drivers to complete routes on unrealistic delivery timelines. It is important that accident victims understand that they do have legal rights after any accident caused by negligence.

Investigating Collinsville Semi-Truck Accidents

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Devin Smart. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. There needs to be some accountability for the sake of the victim’s family.

Do you need more information about a Collinsville semi-truck accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that victims are aware of their rights and that truck companies are held accountable for their wrongful actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.