Coles County, IL (November 14, 2024) – A collision between a vehicle and a semi-truck pulling dual anhydrous ammonia tanks resulted in serious injuries Wednesday morning in Coles County. The accident occurred just after 7:00 a.m. at the intersection of East County Road 1000N and North County Road 500E.
According to the Coles County Sheriff’s Department, a 70-year-old Mattoon woman driving a car had initially stopped at the intersection but then failed to yield the right of way, proceeding north into the path of an oncoming semi-truck. The semi-truck, driven by a 26-year-old Mattoon man, struck the vehicle on the driver’s side. Both vehicles veered off the road and came to rest in a field northeast of the intersection.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly. One individual was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The driver of the semi was also evaluated on-site. Investigators are currently reviewing the circumstances of the crash, including any contributing factors related to road or weather conditions.
Our thoughts are with the victims of this collision, and we wish them a full recovery.
Yielding Failures and Truck Collisions in Illinois
Crashes involving passenger vehicles and large trucks, such as the one in Coles County, often lead to severe consequences due to the sheer size and weight disparity between the vehicles. Intersections, particularly in rural areas, are common sites for such accidents. Failing to yield the right of way is a leading factor in intersection-related collisions, highlighting the importance of driver awareness and adherence to traffic rules.
Semi-trucks carrying hazardous materials, like anhydrous ammonia, pose an additional layer of risk in accidents. In these situations, emergency crews must not only assist the injured but also mitigate the potential for environmental or chemical hazards. Thankfully, reports indicate no leaks occurred during this particular incident.
For those involved in accidents with large trucks, immediate medical attention is critical, even for seemingly minor injuries. Additionally, navigating the legal and insurance complexities that arise after such accidents can be challenging. Victims and their families often need professional guidance to ensure proper compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic collision, Local Accident Reports provides essential resources and tools to help you understand your options. Whether you need legal guidance, information on medical recovery, or assistance with insurance claims, our team is here to support you every step of the way.