There are numerous reasons why large, overloaded trucks should never be on the road, which is why there are also a number of laws and regulations that involve safety protocols on hauling loads, as well as weight limits established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. As a result, an overloaded truck can lead to a trucking accident laywer and overloaded trucks are one of the leading causes of truck accidents.
Additional concerns include the following;
- Truck drivers failing to evenly distribute the weight of the cargo places strain on the axles and mechanical components, affecting the ability of the truck driver to control the truck
- The federal limits for trucks are 80,000 for gross vehicle weights and 18,000 pounds for semi-trucks, including cargo. When trucks are improperly packed, they can easily flip over, harming a number of people on the road
- When trucks have too heavy of a load, jackknifing can occur, which involves the truck swinging to the side and forward and the truck driver losing control
- Too heavy of a load on the truck can lead to problems braking, which then creates a problem when the truck tries to stop
- When heavy loads are combined with poor weather conditions, the truck driver has a more difficult time controlling the truck in general.
- Overloaded trucks can, over time, cause weaker roads and bridges to collapse
Who Is Responsible in the Event of an Accident?
When it comes to accidents caused by truck drivers, not only can the driver be held responsible, but also the trucking company.
If You Have Been in a Truck Accident Here in South Carolina
Injuries from truck accidents can be disastrous and require a significant amount of recovery time. If you have a truck accident, our Car Accident Lawyer Greenville SC are prepared to help you and your family if you have been involved in an accident with a truck. You want to make sure that your attorney acts diligently to collect any and all relevant evidence – maintenance records, electronic logs to check how many hours the driver drove consecutively, etc.
While the first thing to do is ensure that any injuries you have been treated, you should also contact a truck accident attorney so that a proper investigation is done on your behalf and the truck company–which has resources and a strong legal team–does not destroy any evidence that could harm your case.
If an overloaded truck was involved, this will help you to prove negligence and obtain compensation for your injuries, as well as any pain and suffering involved. Contact a truck accident lawyer today to find out more.
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