When you are driving behind a flat-bed truck that is carrying metal crates, lumber, or other items, do you ever feel yourself becoming slightly anxious? If so, you are not the only one. It is not uncommon for drivers to feel at least a little uneasy as they follow behind large trucks hauling open cargo. The vast majority of cargo trucks on the road are carrying loads that have been properly secured, but there is always a small chance that cargo could work its way loose and fall to the roadway. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident caused by falling cargo or debris from a commercial truck, you may be entitled to compensation under the law.
The Dangers of Loose Cargo
Federal regulations address how cargo should be secured on the back of a commercial truck, as cargo that is not properly secured can cause problems in a variety of ways. Of course, cargo that comes completely loose can fall off the truck and into the roadway, creating serious crash hazards for other drivers.
Cargo that is not secured properly can also shift on the bed of the truck without falling. As cargo shifts, so does the balance of the load, which means that the truck may handle much differently. The cargo can shift very quickly, and a sudden attempt to overcorrect by the driver could result in a dangerous crash. Shifting cargo can also change the way that the truck’s load is distributed across the bed—potentially overloading one or more axles. An overloaded axle can cause problems with braking in the event that the driver needs to slow or stop suddenly.
What Are My Options for Seeking Compensation for My Injuries?
Commercial trucks are massive, heavy vehicles, and they can cause a tremendous amount of damage and severe injuries when they are involved in crashes. Even a single piece of fallen cargo can cause devastating injuries. If you have been injured in a crash that you believe was related to unsecured or shifting truck cargo, a personal injury lawsuit could help you get the compensation you deserve.
Unfortunately, trucking accidents can be notoriously difficult, as there are often many entities that share liability. For example, the driver who checked the load might be partially responsible for the loose cargo. The warehouse team that loaded the truck might also have some liability as well. Even the company that owns and operates the truck could share liability if lax safety protocols are common throughout the company. With so many variables at play, it is imperative to work closely with a qualified personal injury attorney with experience in trucking-related accidents.
Contact an Appleton Truck Accident Lawyer
When you have been hurt by falling or unsecured cargo, it is important to enlist the help of an experienced Green Bay trucking accident attorney at Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. right away. Your lawyer will need to identify and preserve important evidence that might not be available if you wait to seek legal advice. Call 920-739-7366 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with a member of our team today.
Source:
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/cargo-securement/cargo-securement-rules