Houston Unsecured Cargo Truck Accident Attorney
Semi trucks involve many dangerous elements. These huge vehicles can cause serious accidents, even if the truck itself does not get into a crash. Semi trucks often haul an immense amount of cargo. This cargo may include anything from hazardous materials to food to construction materials and even smaller vehicles. If this cargo is not properly secured, it can fall off the truck and land onto the roadway. When vehicles are behind the cargo as it falls from the truck, they can sustain serious accidents as they try to avoid it. This can lead to multi-vehicle crashes, catastrophic injuries, and even death. Have you been a victim? If so, a Houston unsecured cargo truck attorney can assess your case and help you take the proper steps.
Dangers of Unsecured Cargo
One of the biggest issues of unsecured cargo is that it often takes drivers by surprise. It happens unexpectedly, giving drivers no time to prepare. When drivers do take evasive action, they may end up colliding with other vehicles or even going off the road.
Unsecured cargo is a common issue, accounting for most debris-related accidents. It also causes major damage and injuries. At 55 miles an hour, an object weighing just 20 pounds, when falling from a truck, can hit a car with the impact of half a ton.
Unsecured cargo is also illegal. A motorist who drops cargo onto the road can face a $500 fine. Because semi trucks are heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), trucking companies could face much stricter penalties, especially if the unsecured cargo leads to serious injuries or death.
When loading cargo, loaders and trucking companies need to ensure proper guidelines are met. Start by knowing your truck weight and maximum load size. The load should be balanced throughout the length of the trailer, with heavier pallets and items in the middle.
The trailer should not be overloaded, as this can cause tire blowouts and make the truck difficult to steer. Cargo should also be tied down to prevent shifting, as loose items make the semi truck more dangerous. When cargo shifts while in transit, it can lead to rollover accidents, especially if the cargo shift happens while making a sharp turn.
Overall, it’s important to keep cargo secure, even if enclosed inside a trailer. When cargo shifts, it can cause dangerous situations.
Contact a Houston Unsecured Cargo Truck Accident Attorney Today
Unsecured cargo can lead to accidents in several ways. Other motorists on the roadways are affected by a truck’s cargo and should be vigilant about falling cargo and cargo in the roadway.
Have you been injured in a crash caused by unsecured cargo? If so, The West Law Office can help. Like all truck accidents, ones involving cargo issues are complex. Determining liability can be a challenge, but we can help. Schedule a free consultation today by calling a Houston unsecured cargo truck attorney at 281-347-3247 or filling out the online form.
