On Wednesday, September 23rd, the Illinois State Police cited Mark Bell, 58, of Cincinnati, for an improper lane change following a traffic accident. It happened on Interstate 74 in Illinois’ Goodfield area.
The accident report released by the ISP showed that the man was westbound on the interstate at mile marker 117 in a construction zone when he ran off the right side of the road and overturned.
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The investigators said that Bell’s semi-truck contained a load of formaldehyde, a highly flammable liquid. They noted that the content did not spill, and they used great care to move it from the scene.
The occurrence led to the closure of the roadway between Goodfield and Carlock for several hours. There is no additional information.
Improper lane change in Illinois is a petty offense punishable with up to $1000 fine in addition to court supervision for up to 24 months. Most law enforcement and traffic agencies award the ticket after determining fault in an accident.
Police officers also use the offense to pull people over even when there is no immediate threat of an accident occurring. Usually, it happens due to DUI enforcement patrol, as officers see weaving in and out of traffic as a sign of impairment.
To avoid getting cited for an improper lane change, drivers should always check the lanes around them, both directly and in their rearview mirrors. Use turn signals when changing travel lanes and obey all signs that prohibit passing and other lane changes.
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