Semi-trucks are responsible for transporting cargo safely from one destination to another. However, if this cargo is not loaded properly, it can increase the risk of a serious accident.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by an improperly loaded truck, contact the experienced truck accident attorney in San Antonio at George Salinas Injury Lawyers. We provide free consultations in which we can review your case and explain your legal options for pursuing financial recovery.
State and Federal Trucking Regulations Related to Loading Commercial Trucks
Local, state, and federal regulations restrict the weight of commercial vehicles. If a vehicle does not have a special permit, the gross weight cannot exceed 80,000 pounds. Bridges, roads, and overpasses also enforce maximum weight restrictions to prevent damage or collapse to these structures.
Additionally, there are special securement rules that the trucking industry must comply with to ensure that cargo is safely stowed onboard. These rules can include using certain tie-downs and fasteners to prevent cargo from becoming dislodged during transport.
Commercial truck drivers are responsible for knowing the cargo, weight, and optimum placement of the load they are transporting. They must also conduct an inspection when first getting the load and at certain intervals while transporting it.
Dangers of Improper Loading
Improper loads can cause truck accidents for various reasons, including:
- Overloaded trucks traveling downhill excessively speed.
- Overloaded trucks are very slow traveling uphill, which can pose a threat to oncoming traffic in a blind corner.
- Improperly loaded trucks can have cargo shift during transit, which can cause the truck to roll over or jackknife.
- Improper loading or overloading of cargo can place additional strain on a vehicle, making mechanical failures, such as failed brakes and tire blowouts, more likely.
- Overloading elevates the truck’s center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over.
- Overloading can shift the weight to the back of the truck and reduce the weight from the front tires, which can cause steering issues comparable to driving on ice.
- Improperly loaded and overloaded trucks take longer to come to a complete stop, so once drivers recognize a danger, they may be unable to avoid a collision.
Excessive shifts in weight can cause accidents involving improper loading to be more severe than other types of accidents.
Who Is Responsible for Improperly Loaded Truck Accidents in San Antonio?
Various parties involved in the trucking industry may be responsible for these accidents, including:
- Truck drivers who fail to inspect the load or correct issues once they notice cargo has shifted
- Trucking companies responsible for the negligence of their drivers or who fail to properly maintain their fleet
- Cargo-loading companies that do not properly secure loads or overload trucks
- Mechanics who do not properly repair trucks that have excessive wear and tear due to improper loads
- Regulators who allow trucks with excessive loads to continue to travel on roadways
An experienced San Antonio commercial work truck accident attorney can investigate your case to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Contact Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers to Discuss Your Case
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by an overloaded or improperly loaded truck, our San Antonio accident lawyer has the resources and knowledge to capably handle your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.