Improperly Loaded Semi-trucks

Many of us remember moving from one home to another using nothing more than brute strength and a pickup truck. In so doing, we would load everything we could (and then some!) into the bed of the pickup to minimize the number of trips that we needed to take to our destination. Many of us do not consider weight distribution or gross vehicular weight when loading up a pickup truck, but these are important considerations when loading a semi-truck or commercial vehicle.

When those responsible for loading a semi-truck or tractor-trailer with goods fail to follow government regulations and either overload the truck or fail to balance and secure the load, the semi may become difficult or impossible to control and an injury or fatality truck crash may result. If you have been hurt in an accident caused by an improperly loaded truck, call the trucking attorneys at Zinda Law Group at 888-345-9407 for a free consultation.

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS LIMIT THE LOADS FOR SEMI-TRUCKS

Commercial carriers who transport loads throughout the United States must comply with federal and state regulations governing the maximum size and weight of the load that can be moved. These regulations were enacted with safety in mind: compliance with these regulations can reduce the likelihood that a semi-truck driver will be unable to control their truck and cause a crash.

In some cases, these weight limits are tied to the number of axles present on the trailer. If a load exceeds these limitations, the carrier must usually obtain a permit and comply with additional safety regulations before the load may be transported. Even when a truck is transporting a load that is not overweight, a truck crash can still occur if the trailer is not loaded properly.

EXAMPLES OF IMPROPERLY LOADED SEMI-TRUCKS

Unless a trailer is open, it may be difficult for motorists to know if a truck is improperly loaded. An improperly loaded truck may appear to be leaning or the truck driver may have a difficult time controlling the vehicle–motorists should avoid traveling too close to these trucks.

An improperly loaded semi-truck may exist if:

• The truck is loaded with cargo that is too heavy or exceeds the capacities of the truck.
• The cargo is not evenly distributed throughout the trailer, causing the trailer to be unbalanced.
• The cargo is not secured on or within the trailer, so that the load shifts while the truck is in motion.
• The load or trailer is stacked too high, causing the truck and trailer to be difficult to control in high winds or when making turns.

When a semi-truck is transporting a load that is too heavy or that is not loaded properly, the semi-truck can become difficult to control. A heavy-laden semi-truck may accelerate uncontrollably down an incline, or a load that shifts during transit can cause the trailer to topple and take the truck with it. A load that is stacked too high can cause the truck to become uncontrollable if the semi-truck is traveling through an area with high winds.

In many cases, an improperly loaded semi-truck accident results from the individuals responsible for loading the trailer failing to devote due care and attention to their job duties. A worker who fails to follow established policies and regulations in loading a trailer may be determined to be negligent. If the truck later crashes as a result of the manner in which the employee loaded the trailer, that employee or worker may be responsible for the injuries and losses that occur. In addition, the employer is also likely to be held responsible for the damages resulting from the crash if they failed to adequately supervise or train the worker.

CONTACT ZINDA LAW GROUP FOR ASSISTANCE AFTER A SEMI-TRUCK ACCIDENT

If you or a loved one suffered injuries because of an improperly loaded truck crash, contact the trucking accident law firm of Zinda Law Group for prompt and professional help. Recovering compensation from a trucking company can be complicated and frustrating, but our experienced legal team can help you complete the recovery process efficiently so you can focus on your physical recovery. Reach out to our firm at (888) 345-9407 today for a free consultation and assistance with your trucking crash injury claim.