If you were hurt in a truck accident, it may have been caused by overloading or improper loading or securing of the cargo. Learn how this causes crashes here.

How Improperly Loaded and Secured Cargo Causes Truck Accidents

If you were injured in a truck accident in the Seattle area, it may not have been caused by the trucker’s negligent driving. Unfortunately, the problem could have been the failure of the truck driver, trucking company, or shipper to properly load and secure the cargo the truck was transporting. When this occurs, the load can shift in transport and lead the truck to shift or tip over, causing a catastrophic truck accident.

How Failures to Load Cargo Properly Lead to Truck Crashes

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) implemented the Cargo Securement Rules regarding the proper securing of cargo on a truck in 2002. They require that the cargo be “firmly immobilized or secured” by tiedowns or other cargo securement devices. In addition, there are specific requirements for certain types of cargo. These rules are often violated when cargo is not loaded or secured properly. Here are some of the ways load problems lead to truck accidents:

  • Overloading. When a truck is overloaded, it can cause it to be top-heavy and less stable, which can lead to a rollover or jackknife accident where the truck’s cab swings out into incoming lanes. In addition, an overloaded truck will take longer to stop, and the added pressure on the tires can cause a tire blowout accident.
  • Improper loading. Unfortunately, cargo can shift when it is not loaded properly. This can affect the truck’s stability and balance—increasing the risk of the truck tipping over or the truck driver losing control of the truck.
  • Improper securing. If cargo is not secured properly, it can fall off the truck. This can result in a multi-vehicle collision as nearby motorists swerve to try to avoid colliding with the cargo.  

If problems with loading and securing the truck’s cargo caused you to suffer injuries in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation from many liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and shipper. Our experienced truck accident attorneys are here to identify all negligent parties and file claims with their insurance companies on your behalf. To learn more, call our Bellevue office to schedule your free consultation.

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