Illinois Trucking Laws and Regulations

Large trucks are necessary for the nation’s supply system, but they also present a significant hazard to smaller vehicles on the road. Because many trucks cross state lines, they fall under regulation by the federal government as well as Illinois’ trucking laws, many of which are safety regulations meant to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. When a truck driver or trucking company fails to adhere to these laws and regulations, the result can be a devastating accident. Failing to follow trucking regulations also leaves the trucking company, driver, or other entity associated with the trucking industry liable for damages to injury victims.

FMCSA Regulations for Trucking In Illinois

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has many regulations in place to ensure that every truck on the road is well-maintained, securely loaded, and driven by a well-qualified and rested driver. Some of the most important federal regulations for trucking in Illinois and throughout the nation include the following:

• Weight limits that restrict trucks to no more than 80,000 pounds when fully loaded
• Requirements for hiring qualified drivers, providing training, and performing drug and alcohol tests upon hiring and at random
• Hours of service regulations (HOS) to place limits on driving hours, require breaks, and limit the number of working days per week
• Requirements for meticulously logging driving hours and breaks, typically through an electronic logging device
• Regulations for balancing cargo and securing different types of cargo in place with appropriate fasteners
• Regulations for routine truck inspections before trips and regular thorough inspections
• Requirements for logging inspections, maintenance, and repairs
• Special requirements for hauling hazardous materials

These are some of the most critical federal regulations for minimizing the risks of a truck accident in Illinois and elsewhere. If you have been injured in a trucking accident, our Chicago truck crash attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Why Does Illinois Have Trucking Laws and Regulations That are Separate From Federal Laws?

Federal regulations apply to trucks that cross state lines for interstate hauling. Trucks that limit their travel to within a state without crossing state lines only have to follow the state laws; however, states typically follow the FMCSA regulations with limited variations and requirements specific to the state. Most of Illinois’ state laws follow the FMCSA regulations, but it’s important for Illinois truck drivers and drivers from other states who pass through Illinois during interstate travel to know and follow the laws specific to Illinois.

Illinois Laws and Regulations for Trucking

In addition to the federal regulations for trucking, drivers must carefully follow regulations that are unique to each state they enter, including Illinois. Illinois places the following limits on the trucking industry:

• State laws limiting driving hours for truckers who drive only within Illinois—these may vary from federal regulations
• Size and weight limits that are specific to the type of truck, the type of road, and the type of cargo carried through or within Illinois
• State regulations for hauling hazardous cargo
• Specific requirements for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL), including allowing 18-year-olds to obtain a CDL, while federal regulations prohibit interstate truck driving to those below the age of 21. Illinois truck drivers under age 18 may only drive within the state.

Illinois imposes penalties for violations of state trucking regulations in addition to any federal penalties for violations. The state also expects truck drivers to follow all state traffic laws to avoid citations.