An overweight truck makes it difficult to maneuver in normal conditions. If a company insists on overloading a tractor-trailer, it may also require an unrealistic delivery schedule, causing the driver to move too fast for road conditions.
When you or your loved one has been in an overloaded or overweight truck accident in Columbia, seek help from a lawyer about your legal rights. Our experienced truck collision attorneys could help build a solid case for compensation.
How Do Overloaded/Overweight Trucks Cause Accidents?
There are several reasons why an overloaded truck becomes more susceptible to accidents. It creates stress on mechanical parts, putting the vehicle at greater risk of malfunction. For instance, an overloaded truck can cause brake damage.
When the trailer is burdened, it can be more challenging for the trucker to steer or stop the vehicle. The heavy weight can also lead to tire blowouts, potentially leading to a multi-car collision. Each of these factors can contribute to an overloaded truck wreck in Columbia.
Injuries Resulting from Overloaded Trucking Accidents
An overloaded commercial truck puts everyone involved at risk. The weight of the truck and the nature of these accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities. Some common forms of harm seen in overweight trucking crashes include the following:
- Broken bones and lacerations
- Torn muscles and ligaments
- Moderate to severe burns
- Organ damage
- Spinal cord trauma
- Loss of limbs
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
Some individuals who sustain these injuries end up with life-altering medical conditions that impact their physical and emotional well-being. A Columbia attorney could help calculate damages after a crash to pursue a fair settlement.
Who is Liable When a Truck is Overloaded?
Many factors come into play when determining liability in an overweight truck wreck in Columbia. The first person with culpability is the truck driver. Truckers must adhere to state and local mandates controlling commercial truck cargo loads.
The turnover in the trucking industry and the shortage of weighing stations allow too many overloaded trucks on the road. Ultimately, the driver is responsible for knowing the truck’s weight limits.
Trucking companies also share liability. They are responsible for vetting the drivers and providing up-to-date safety training. However, third parties, including mechanics and outsourced trainers, may also face liability charges.
These complex liability issues require seeking legal advice from a lawyer who handles truck accident cases.
Steps to Take After an Accident with an Overweight Truck
Anyone involved in a trucking collision should seek medical attention immediately. If you are seriously injured, someone needs to call an ambulance. Even if you think your injuries are minor, you still need a thorough medical exam. This can provide documentation of your injuries that can be used later when pursuing compensation.
You also need to obtain a copy of the police report. This could have critical information that points to liability. Do not accept any settlements from an insurance company without first meeting with legal counsel. The complexities of an overweight truck collision require the advice of legal and medical experts.
Learn More About Recovering After an Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accident in Columbia
At Whetstone Perkins and Fulda, we believe you deserve restitution so you can move forward with your life after any type of accident. Our legal team works to get you the best possible settlement for physical and emotional damages.
If you were injured in an overloaded/overweight truck accident in Columbia, please contact us for a no-obligation consultation. We will not collect a fee unless you receive a settlement.
