Truckers Plan "Slow Roll" From Marion to Effingham

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Published on January 26 2019 6:48 am
Last Updated on January 26 2019 6:48 am
Written by Matt Robinson

A group called Black Smoke Matters plans a slow-roll of northbound I-57 traffic from Marion to Effingham today which would impact traffic through the 100 mile stretch of the Interstate.  The truckers say the slowdown is to protest regulations they feel are hurting the industry.

The group plans to meet at the Pilot Truck Stop in Marion at 10 this morning and move northbound onto the interstate at 11am.   

Some reports indicate they plan to move side by side preventing other traffic from getting past the slow-roll, however the group has communicated to the Illinois State Police that they will be travelling in the right lane of I-57.

“Though the Illinois State Police respects the rights of citizens to express their opinions in a lawful manner, there is great concern with any event that is designed to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic," stated ISP Southern Patrol Commander Major Chris Owen. “Traffic backups are a major contributing cause to traffic crashes, which lead to property damage, personal injury, and possibly death. A planned event designed to impede normal traffic flow is dangerous to the innocent motoring public,” added Major Owen. “Those who choose to participate in events that intentionally endanger the public and violate Illinois law will be subject to the enforcement of applicable laws and could potentially be held liable for traffic crashes occurring as a result of their actions,” concluded Major Owen. The Illinois State Police urges all motorists to abide by traffic laws for the safety of all.

Members of the group expressed that while some regulations and protocols are a step in the right direction to make the trucking industry safe, others are making it more dangerous.  The issues they would like to see addressed include more training for new drivers, an updated electronic logging system and additional truck parking options.

The event is one of many being planned by Black Smoke Matters that could lead to a nationwide trucking shutdown that is being discussed for April 12th.