Trucks are very large vehicles, making it difficult for the driver to steer correctly. Everything on the tractor-trailer must be in working order for the truck driver to safely reach their destination. Not only does this include the parts on the truck, but it also includes the cargo itself. How the cargo is loaded can determine how the operator can drive the truck. Improper cargo loading can cause serious crashes. You may be entitled to significant financial compensation if you or a loved one has been injured in a collision involving poorly loaded cargo.

Federal Regulations on Cargo Loading

Federal regulations strictly control how cargo is to be loaded onto a truck. There are rules regarding the following:

• The weight of a truck (trucks can weigh no more than 80,000 pounds fully loaded).
• How cargo is to be secured onto a truck.
• The weight distribution of cargo.
• Equipment to be used when loading cargo.

The most crucial task that cargo loaders perform is ensuring that the load is properly tied down. Further, drivers must check on their cargo after being on the road for 50 and every 150 miles.

Understanding the Types of Truck Crashes Caused by Failure to Load Cargo Properly

Trucking companies or cargo loaders may cut corners when loading items onto a truck because they want to get the truck on the road more quickly or increase its capacity. Even a slight imbalance in the truck’s weight can make it much more difficult for the driver to control the tractor-trailer. Improper cargo loading can cause the following types of truck crashes:

• Rollover crashes: This is the most common type of truck crash caused by improper car loading because the center of gravity on the truck will shift, causing the truck driver to lose control
• Jackknife: The uneven weight distribution may cause the Trailer to swing out to the side while the cab remains in place, striking cars that are in its path
• Rear-end crashes: Even weight distribution could make it harder for the driver to apply the brakes and stop in time to avoid striking a car in front.

Improper cargo loading can also cause crashes. If the cargo is not tied down and adequately secured, it can fly off the truck and onto the roadway. The debris can strike another car, or the vehicle may run over the cargo. A driver can lose control trying to avoid debris on the roadway. Improper cargo loading can even cause truck fires and explosions.

Responsible Parties for Improper Cargo Loading Crashes

Usually, the trucking company would be the one to blame for a cargo-loading crash. However, there may be others who could be legally responsible for what happened. For example, the trucking company may have subcontracted cargo loading to another business, and you could sue them, too. In some cases, shippers are the ones who load cargo, and they can also face legal liability.

An experienced truck crash lawyer would investigate the cause of the crash and gather evidence that can be used to prove liability. They can also help determine who you may be able to sue for the collision. Finally, the truck crash lawyer would also estimate your damages so you know how much to seek in financial compensation.

Contact the Albuquerque Truck Crash Lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC if You Have Been Injured

The Albuquerque truck crash lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC go to bat for our clients when they have been injured in a crash with a commercial vehicle. Our attorneys are experienced at getting to the bottom of a truck crash and gathering the evidence you need to prove liability. Call us today at 505-900-3559 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our attorneys. Our office is in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and we also serve clients in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.