Matthew Miller Killed In Rock Falls Semi-Truck Accident

Truck Accident - April 7, 2024

Matthew Miller, 41, of Rock Falls, Died In Semi-Truck Accident While Driving Tractor By Illinois Route 172 and Illinois Route 40

Matthew Miller Killed In Rock Falls Semi-Truck Accident

ROCK FALLS, ILLINOIS (April 6, 2024) – A 41-year-old man driving a tractor identified as Matthew Miller has tragically died in a Rock Falls semi-truck accident.

Whiteside County officials are saying that the accident took place around 9:22 a.m. on April 3. A semi-truck attempted to pass a tractor driven by Matthew Miller when both vehicles collided at the intersection of Illinois Route 172 and Illinois Route 40.

Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Matthew Miller was pronounced dead at the scene.

The police issued a citation to the truck driver for improperly passing a vehicle within 100 feet of an intersection. A full investigation into the collision remains ongoing at this time.

Liability For Rock Falls Semi-Truck Accidents

Semi-trucks are essential for the transportation of goods. But their large size and weight can make them particularly dangerous on the road. According to the IIHS, “Large trucks often weigh 20-30 times as much as passenger vehicles. They are taller and have greater ground clearance than cars, which means that lower-riding vehicles can slide beneath truck trailers, with deadly consequences. Strong underride guards can prevent that from happening.” There are a number of steps that truck companies should take in order to prevent collisions.

  • Truck companies can install safety features on their vehicles, such as forward collision avoidance systems.
  • Truck companies should perform routine maintenance and regular inspections on their fleet.
  • Truck companies should make sure that their drivers are using commercial GPS software.

Any person who drives a commercial truck must get a commercial license. This requires them to undergo specialized training. These drivers are held to a high standard in terms of safety. Despite this, many truck accidents involve truck drivers who commit traffic infractions. Pursuant to Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/11-706, “No vehicle shall be driven on the left side of the roadway […] when approaching within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection or railroad grade crossing.” If a driver makes an unsafe passing maneuver and causes an accident, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.

The company that a truck driver worked for could also be held at fault for a collision. In general, companies are liable for the wrongful actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. However, many truck companies will try to evade liability for crashes by hiring their drivers as “independent contractors.” It is important that certain steps be taken after any truck accident.

  • The work logbook for the truck driver involved should be sought.
  • The event data recorder (EDR) of the truck involved should be collected.
  • Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
  • All medical records related to the crash should be preserved.

Semi-truck accidents are often highly preventable. They are much more likely to occur when truck drivers are pushed to complete their deliveries on unrealistic schedules. It is common for truck drivers in these situations to become dangerously fatigued. Drivers may also engage in risky driving behaviors such as speeding. Sadly, though, truck companies will often do everything that they can to deny liability for any collision. This is why it is important that evidence is properly preserved.

Investigating Rock Falls Semi-Truck Accidents

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Matthew Miller. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. This was a preventable tragedy that should not have taken place. There are so many questions that remain unanswered.

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