Falling Cargo Can Lead to Deadly Trucking Accidents

 Posted on September 26, 2023 in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can potentially cause catastrophic damage and severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. One significant contributing factor to truck accidents is falling cargo. When cargo is not properly secured or loaded, it can shift or fall during transit, leading to hazardous situations on the road. If you were injured in a trucking accident involving falling cargo, contact a lawyer, as you may be entitled to compensation.

Dangers of Falling Cargo

Falling cargo poses numerous risks on the road, including:

• Impaired visibility – When cargo falls from a truck, it can obstruct the driver’s view, making it challenging to navigate and react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions. This limited visibility can result in collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects on the road. 

• Roadway obstructions – Cargo that falls onto the roadway can create obstacles for other drivers, potentially causing them to swerve or brake suddenly to avoid collisions. These sudden maneuvers can lead to accidents, especially in high-speed situations or heavy traffic.

• Unbalanced loads – Improperly secured or loaded cargo can cause the truck to become unbalanced, affecting its stability and maneuverability. An unbalanced load can increase the risk of rollovers or other dangerous situations, resulting in serious accidents. 

• Shifted weight – When cargo shifts inside a truck during transit, it can affect the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more difficult for the driver to control the truck. This can result in loss of control, sudden lane changes, or even rollovers. 

Legal Implications

• Federal and state regulations – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations that govern the proper loading and securing of cargo on commercial vehicles. Meanwhile, California also has laws establishing regulations for safe trucking practices. Trucking companies and drivers must comply with these regulations to ensure the safe transport of goods. Failure to adhere to these rules can lead to liability in an accident caused by falling cargo. 

• Negligence claims – When falling cargo causes a truck accident, injured parties may have grounds to pursue legal action against the trucking company or driver. To establish a negligence claim, the injured party must demonstrate that the defendant breached their duty of care by failing to secure or load the cargo properly, causing the accident and resulting injuries. 

• Liability and compensation – Depending on the circumstances, liability for a truck accident involving falling cargo may rest with the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, or other parties responsible for ensuring safe transport.

Contact a Riverside County Truck Accident Lawyer 

For legal help in pursuing compensation, contact the skilled Temecula truck accident attorney with Maineri Law Firm. Call 951-698-4200 for a free consultation.