The Dangers of an Overloaded Tractor Trailer

If you have been involved in an accident involving a tractor-trailer, every aspect of the accident must be examined closely to assign blame and effectively demand compensation.

Companies of all sizes depend on commercial trucks to move their products around the country. Unfortunately, when these trucks are overloaded and used improperly, they can be extremely dangerous on the road.

When a tractor-trailer is overloaded, they create many potential hazards, ranging from longer stopping distances to load imbalance. While federal laws are in place to control commercial vehicles’ weight limits, many trucking companies push these limits. When an overweight truck is involved in an accident, the company or owner may be legally negligent and responsible for any damage caused.

Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300!

What is an Overloaded Truck?

The United States Federal Highway Administration strictly controls the maximum weight limits for all commercial vehicles. For example, the weight limit for a single-axle truck is 20,000 pounds. For dual-axle trucks, the weight limit increases to 34,000 pounds.

Overloaded Trucks – The Potential Dangers

The federal laws exist for a reason. The Department of Transportation calculates the forces that affect when a truck travels at a certain speed. Then, they calculate the distance needed for that truck to come to a full stop. This calculation depends on the truck weighing an appropriate amount. When a truck exceeds the maximum weight, it takes longer for the truck to stop. When a truck driver finds him or herself in an emergency situation and has to come to a sudden halt, the result can be catastrophic.

Also, a truck that exceeds the legal weight limits can struggle to navigate curves properly. When a truck carrying an excess load goes around a curve, it may be top-heavy and can tip over.

The Legal Consequences

When two or more vehicles are involved in a collision, the drivers’ actions are taken into consideration when determining who is at fault. However, when one of the drivers violates the law, this changes the situation.

If one of the parties caused an accident because they violated a law intended to prevent an accident, the law would assume the violator as negligent.

The negligent party may be required to compensate injured plaintiffs for all their damages. The compensation would include medical costs as well as any financial and emotional damages resulting from the accident.

St. Louis Truck Accident Attorneys

If you have been involved in an accident involving a tractor-trailer, every aspect of the accident must be examined closely to assign blame and effectively demand compensation.

Being involved in an accident involving a commercial truck can have catastrophic effects on your life. On top of your physical injuries and damage to your vehicle, you may experience financial losses or mental anguish.

At The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann, we will examine all of your case’s facts to determine which course of action will lead to the best chance for a positive outcome.