How Can a Tractor-Trailer’s Cargo Cause Accidents?

 Posted on October 14, 2024 in Car Accidents

Preliminary 2023 data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports 6,402 large truck accidents in Illinois that injured 3,205 people and killed 172. While many truck accident injuries result from direct impact, there is also a danger of indirect injuries caused by a truck’s cargo.

What kinds of accidents can result from cargo issues? Who is liable in these cases? If you sustained injuries in a truck accident, an experienced lawyer from Barrington Injury Attorneys can investigate your situation, establish liability, and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

How Can a Truck’s Cargo Cause Accidents and Injuries?

When fully loaded, a tractor-trailer can weigh 80,000 pounds. Much of that weight comes from the truck’s cargo. Whether a truck is hauling cases of canned goods stacked on pallets or large items secured by chains on flatbed trailers, the load must be balanced and secured correctly so the driver can control his truck.

Unbalanced Loads

Truck trailers are 8.5 feet wide and are usually 48 – 53 feet long. Enclosed trailers are typically 13.5 feet tall, making them top-heavy. High winds or turns taken at higher speeds can lead to rollovers, especially if the cargo is not appropriately balanced.

A lot of cargo can fit in or on these trailers, but the weight must be distributed evenly. Placing heavier goods along the left side of the trailer while putting lighter-weight items on the right can cause instability.

Improperly Secured Cargo

When pallets or large loose items are not secured properly, they can shift during transit, which can also cause rollover accidents. In some cases, the loose cargo may fall off the trailer. Whether it hits nearby cars or falls onto the road, creating a roadway obstacle, cargo can injure motorists even if the truck does not collide with other vehicles.

Toxic Cargo

Tanker trucks carry fuel and other liquid substances that may be toxic. If something causes these liquids to leak, fires may result. In other cases, those nearby might inhale toxic fumes, causing other kinds of injuries.

Who Is Liable When a Truck’s Cargo Causes Crashes and Injuries?

With commercial vehicles, several parties might be liable for injuries and harm caused. At-fault parties may include:

• The driver
• The truck’s owner or leasing company
• The trucking company
• Parts or truck manufacturers
• Truck maintenance companies
• Cargo loaders

Another motorist could cause a truck crash, or you could share responsibility. Your attorney from Barrington Injury Attorneys will investigate your accident to determine why it happened. Only then can we establish liability.

Truck crashes often cause severe injuries and significant property damage. You might qualify to receive reimbursement or compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and other eligible damages. Unfortunately, liable insurance companies will likely fight against paying you a reasonable amount, using various methods to reduce or eliminate your payout. When you partner with Barrington Injury Attorneys, we will not let insurers get away with treating you unfairly.

Call for Your Free Consultation With Our Dedicated Cook County, IL Truck Accident Lawyers

You do not have to face the challenges of a truck accident claim alone. You can rely on Barrington Injury Attorneys to provide effective legal representation while steadfastly safeguarding your best interests. Call 224-900-HURT to discuss your case with one of our experienced Barrington, IL personal injury attorneys.