Many different reasons stand behind the causes of truck accidents in California. Speeding, distracted driving and similar behaviors get all the attention. But what many people don’t realize is that improperly loading a semi-tractor trailer can also lead to severe consequences.
Heavy loads make trucks more dangerous
Truck accidents cause some of the most devastating injuries on Southern California roads due to their sheer size and weight. Large trucks can easily weigh more than 10,000 pounds when they are fully loaded. Improperly loading a semi means that the load is unevenly distributed or that the cargo is too heavy, leading to difficulty handling the vehicle. Unsecured cargo can shift during transportation, leading to uneven distribution.
Uneven distribution affects a truck’s handling because too much weight in the wrong places can cause the frame, tires, axle housing or suspension to fail at critical times. Depending on cargo placement, brakes can become too sensitive, the front tires could lift, or the truck could roll over. Overweight loads significantly affect the truck’s handling on inclines and declines, making steering difficult to control.
Determining who is responsible for your accident
When commercial vehicles cause an accident resulting in catastrophic injuries, several different parties may be negligent in the mishap. While the truck driver may be at fault, other factors may also come into play, including the trucking company’s policies to deliver the load, overdue maintenance leading to failed systems, and improper loading.
If you believe you have been injured due to the negligence of a truck driver and the trucking company, attempt to get as much information as possible about the incident. Doing so can help you when you file a claim. If you have been involved in a trucking accident, please contact The Law Office of Aman N. Shah for a free consultation.
