Improperly Loaded Trucks Can Cause Deadly Accidents

 Posted on September 08, 2023 in Personal Injury

Trucks that are loaded improperly pose a significant risk on our roads, leading to devastating car accidents with potentially fatal consequences. If you were in an accident with an improperly loaded truck, contact an experienced attorney to ensure you understand the legal implications of the situation and can have a legal professional in your corner advocating for your rights and interests. 

Understanding the Risks

Properly loading a truck is crucial for maintaining stability, maneuverability, and safety. When a truck is improperly loaded, several risks arise, including:

1. Shifting cargo – Improperly secured cargo can shift during transport, affecting the truck’s balance and stability. This can lead to the driver losing control, causing accidents such as rollovers. 

2. Overweight loads – Exceeding weight limits can strain the truck’s braking system, making it harder to stop or slow down. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions and reduces the driver’s ability to maneuver safely. 

3. Falling debris – Poorly secured cargo can fall from the truck, becoming hazardous projectiles on the road. Falling debris poses a significant threat to other drivers, pedestrians, and property, potentially causing severe injuries or fatalities. 

Legal Implications

1. Violations of Illinois regulations – Improperly loaded trucks often violate federal and state laws, including weight limits, securement requirements, and load distribution guidelines. These violations can be used as evidence of negligence in personal injury or wrongful death claims.

2. Negligence claims – Injured parties in accidents caused by poorly loaded trucks can pursue legal action against the responsible parties. Personal injury lawyers can help establish negligence by proving that the loading company, truck driver, or other parties involved failed to exercise reasonable care in properly securing and loading the cargo.

3. Product liability – In some cases, accidents may occur due to faulty equipment or defective cargo-securing devices. Personal injury attorneys can explore product liability claims against manufacturers or suppliers if the equipment or securing devices are found to be defective. 

Understanding How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

1. Thorough investigation – Personal injury lawyers possess the skill to conduct comprehensive investigations into truck accidents, including what caused the accident. Working alongside accident reconstruction professionals, reviewing trucking company records, and gathering evidence to establish liability are all critical functions of a personal injury attorney. 

2. Representing you when it matters most - Attorneys advocate for injured parties and their families, representing their interests during negotiations with insurance companies in court.

3. Pursuing compensation – Personal injury lawyers fight for fair compensation on behalf of their clients. This includes seeking damages for medical costs and more.

Contact an Orland Park, IL Truck Accident Lawyer

For legal guidance navigating the aftermath of a trucking accident, contact the skilled Cook County truck accident attorneys with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 708-888-2160 for a free consultation.