Overloaded Truck Accident Lawsuit Injury Lawyer
Commercial truck drivers are responsible for knowing and adhering to laws and regulations regarding operating large trucks. It is not only the ability and skill to drive a large truck, but the regulations regarding load size and weight that are integral to driving a commercial vehicle. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific regulations regarding loads to improve safety, which must be met by truck drivers. When these regulations are ignored, it can lead to higher risks of truck accidents that can cause serious injuries and fatalities.
Truck drivers and their employers want to make the most money from each trip they make. Loading trucks to full capacity can increase profits, but if they overload their vehicles, truck drivers can break FMCSA regulations and put others at risk on the roadways. General regulations limit commercial trucks to 80,000 pounds total weight. There are also regulations on load heights and how they must be secured. When a truck is overloaded, it is more likely to be difficult to control and can have serious safety ramifications.
Dangers of Overloaded Large Trucks
Most interstates have weigh-stations where commercial trucks are randomly evaluated for their weight. Truck drivers and their employers can face hefty fines and other penalties if they exceed the weight limits. Even with these safety procedures in place, many trucks still are on the roads with overloaded trailers. These excess loads can create a dangerous scenario for their drivers and anyone else sharing the road with these trucks, including:
- Higher centers of gravity which can lead to rollover accidents
- Risk of shifting or loss of load
- Difficulty maneuvering or controlling the vehicle
- Slower stops
- Increased risk of brake or tire failure
If you or a loved one has been injured in a large truck accident, one of the considerations when determining cause and liability is whether the truck was overloaded. Contact our team at Conley Griggs Partin LLP to discuss your case. If negligence is evident due to an overloaded truck or other factors, the truck driver and possibly their employer may be liable for injuries and damages in your claim. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.