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Learn about the types of loading problems that can cause truck accidents and who is liable

When Loading Problems Cause Truck AccidentsOf the hundreds of thousands of big rig truck accidents that take place each year, most are caused by driver error. However, there is one type of trucking accident that has nothing to do with driving ability: improper loading accidents.

There are detailed federal regulations governing how commercial trucks should be loaded. When these regulations are not followed, accidents may result. Specifically, there are three types of loading problems that can result in accidents:

Overloading: When a truck is carrying more weight than it is rated for, it will not handle like it’s supposed to. For example, an overly heavy load could easily affect a truck’s braking ability, which could cause the trailer to jackknife and hit vehicles in other lanes of traffic. Overloaded trucks are also prone to steering problems.

Incorrect load distribution: If the cargo inside a tractor trailer or on a flatbed trailer is not distributed properly, it will affect the vehicle’s center of gravity, which may cause a rollover accident. For example, if a truck is loaded so it is top heavy, this will make it more likely to flip over rather than just spin out on a hard curve such as a highway exit ramp.

Incorrect load securing: All cargo must be secured properly for two very important reasons. First of all, shifting cargo could change the distribution of the load. Secondly, poorly secured cargo could potentially fall off of the truck, injuring nearby pedestrians or motorists. In addition to using the right type and number of tie down restraints, wedges, chocks, cradles, and other load securing equipment, truckers may also need to use dunnage bags or shoring bars to fill up gaps between items and help them stay in place.

Who is Liable for Accidents Caused by Improper Loading?

Truck drivers are responsible for ensuring safe loading of their cargo. Though they may not do the physical labor of loading themselves, they should inspect the finished result. They are responsible for knowing the weight of the load, ensuring the items are distributed correctly, and making sure everything is properly secured. The load must be inspected before the trip begins as well as after the first 50 miles and at various other points throughout the trip, to account for any potential shifting.

When truck drivers make mistakes in the course of their jobs, their employers are liable. This means that if you have been injured in a truck accident caused by some kind of loading problem, you will actually be targeting the trucking company for your compensation.

Don’t Go Up Against a Trucking Company Alone

Trucking companies have ample resources at their disposal to use to fight potential truck accident injury claims. In order to prevent your claim from being unfairly denied or reduced, you need an experienced truck accident injury attorney on your side. Who better to choose than The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker? We know how to go up against the biggest trucking companies and win. For a free initial consultation regarding your claim, please call us at 800-333-0000 now.