A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and when that weight isn’t properly secured or exceeds legal limits, the risk of a serious truck accident increases dramatically. In one recent year, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).
When a truck driver, trucking company, or cargo loader fails to follow safety regulations, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Texas truck accident, an experienced attorney can investigate the cause, hold the responsible parties accountable, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How truck cargo becomes overloaded or unsecured
Laws with weight limits are in place to ensure semi-trucks remain stable and safe to operate. However, trucking companies or drivers may overload trucks to maximize profits or meet demanding delivery schedules. This excess weight can strain vehicle components, making the 18-wheeler harder to control and more prone to mechanical failures.
Unsecured cargo is another major concern. If loads aren’t properly fastened, they can shift unexpectedly, throwing off a tractor-trailer's balance or spilling onto the roadway. This often happens when loading crews fail to use the correct tie-downs or overlook essential securement checks.
The dangers of overloaded and unsecured cargo
Overloading and failing to secure cargo on a semi-truck doesn’t just violate regulations—it creates serious hazards that put everyone on the road at risk. A truck carrying too much weight or improperly fastened cargo can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Common dangers and ways overloaded and unsecured cargo can cause truck accidents include:
Loss of vehicle control
Overloaded semi-trucks are significantly harder to handle, requiring longer stopping distances and making it more difficult for truckers to maintain control. The added weight of cargo can affect steering, making sudden turns or lane changes especially hazardous. In these situations, any driver on the road may not be able to react in time to avoid a collision, leading to severe accidents that could have been prevented with proper loading practices.
Increased risk of rollovers
Excess weight raises a truck’s center of gravity, making it more prone to tipping over. The risk of rollover accidents increases when a truck navigates sharp curves, goes down steep inclines, or makes sudden moves to avoid road hazards. A rollover accident can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to multi-vehicle and chain-reaction crashes.
Brake and tire failures
Overloading cargo puts extra pressure on a truck's brakes and tires, causing them to wear out faster. When brakes overheat, they might not stop the truck in time, and overworked tires are more likely to blow out. Both of these problems can lead to serious accidents, especially on highways where speeds are high. To avoid these issues, regular maintenance and following weight limits are crucial.
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift within the truck or fall onto the roadway. This creates immediate dangers for surrounding vehicles, which may have little time to react. Cargo spills can lead to multi-vehicle pileups, especially if the contents of the cargo are hazardous or obstruct visibility. Ensuring that all loads are correctly fastened and routinely checked is key to preventing these types of accidents.
Who is liable for overloaded or unsecured cargo accidents?
When a truck accident occurs due to overloaded or unsecured cargo, multiple parties may be responsible. Identifying who is liable is crucial for pursuing compensation and holding the negligent parties accountable.
- Truck drivers – Truckers are responsible for conducting pre-trip inspections to ensure their cargo is properly secured and does not exceed legal weight limits. If they fail to check their load or ignore safety regulations, they can be held accountable.
- Trucking companies – Many trucking companies prioritize delivery speed and profit over safety, pressuring drivers to haul excessive loads or cut corners on cargo securement. Companies that fail to train drivers or enforce proper safety protocols may be liable.
- Loading crews and cargo handlers – Cargo loaders must follow securement regulations to prevent shifting loads or debris from spilling onto the road. If they fail to do so, they may be responsible for any resulting accidents.
- Truck manufacturers and maintenance crews – If a truck’s brakes, tires, or securement devices fail due to design defects or lack of maintenance, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held liable for contributing to the crash.
A thorough investigation is essential to determine fault, which is why having an experienced truck accident lawyer is critical when pursuing a claim.
Let a Fort Worth truck accident lawyer fight for you
Truck accidents can leave victims with devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and long-term challenges. If you've been hurt in a truck accident caused by overloaded or unsecured cargo, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases.
At Colby L. Wooten, Attorney at Law, P.C., we have the experience and resources to take on trucking companies and fight for maximum compensation. For instance, in one case, we obtained a $1.8 million settlement for a client who suffered a closed head injury in a rear-end truck accident.
Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can help you recover and move forward after your truck accident.
"I had the best experience using Coby Wooten as my attorney. He always keep me posted and explains everything also he makes things easier. I would recommend to work with him he is the best attorney I have ever worked with." - Dena A., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐