Improper Cargo Weight Distribution
A commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. However, heavy load permits sometimes allow for weights in excess of 80,000 pounds. The weight must be distributed correctly over the axles, or it could cause the truck to wreck.
Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers at Hasner Law PC have extensive experience representing victims of truck crashes. Our top-rated Georgia injury lawyers have over 80 years of combined legal experience. We personally work on each case to ensure that our clients receive the attention they deserve.
contact our law office at (678) 888-4878 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced truck accident attorney in Atlanta, Georgia.
How Our Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Truck Accident Caused By Improper Cargo Weight Distribution
Our attorneys at Hasner Law, PC have numerous recognitions and awards. We have a Superb rating with Avvo, and our attorneys have been recognized by national organizations, including The National Trial Lawyers and Expertise.com.
A truck accident can cause severe injuries and disabling conditions. We’ll pursue all claims to maximize the compensation you receive for your damages. Because of our experience and success record, our law firm has the resources to go up against the largest trucking companies and their insurance providers.
When you hire Hasner Law, PC after a truck accident in Atlanta, GA, you can expect our legal team to:
- Independently investigate the truck accident to gather evidence and identify at-fault parties
- Obtain results of investigations by law enforcement departments and government agencies
- Work with the best experts in the trucking industry to obtain additional evidence supporting your claim
- Document your damages and pursue the maximum compensation for your claim
- Negotiate insurance settlements and proceed to court, if necessary
Truck accident cases are incredibly complex. Experience counts when you are fighting for a just outcome in your case. We are prepared to stand up for your rights.
Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation with our Atlanta truck accident attorneys.
Improper Cargo Weight Distribution Can Cause Deadly Truck Accidents in Atlanta, GA
Improperly distributing cargo weight on a semi-truck can cause numerous problems. Many of these problems can lead to a truck accident. Some things that could go wrong because of improper cargo weight distribution include:
Lengthening a Truck’s Stopping Distance
The incorrect weight distribution of the cargo could increase the truck’s stopping distance. The truck driver could be unaware that the cargo is improperly loaded. Therefore, the driver might not anticipate needing more time to stop, thereby making rear-end accidents more likely.
Rollover Truck Accidents
Cargo should be distributed equally on the truck. If not, the weight of the cargo on one side could increase the risk of a rollover accident. The truck could tip over while going around a curve or turning.
Cargo Spills
Uneven weight distribution on a commercial truck bed could cause the cargo to fall off when the truck goes up a steep incline, suddenly stops, or takes a sharp turn. A cargo spill can cause an accident. It can also put people in danger if the truck is hauling hazardous materials.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Commercial truck tires are designed to support heavy cargo. However, too much weight on one side of the truck could cause a tire blowout. Tire blowouts can cause a truck accident, but they can also leave debris on roads that cause accidents involving other vehicles.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife truck accident occurs when the truck’s cab and the trailer fold toward each other. Distributing the cargo weight unevenly can increase the risk of the driver losing control of the truck, resulting in a jackknife accident.
Who Is Responsible for Causing a Truck Accident Resulting from Improper Cargo Weight Distribution?
One or more negligent parties could be liable for the damages caused by accidents resulting from improperly distributing cargo weight. Truck drivers typically do not participate in loading cargo on their trucks. However, if they know the cargo was loaded improperly, they could share liability for damages.
Other parties that could be liable for loading the cargo incorrectly include:
- The shipper
- Cargo loaders
- The trucking company
- The seller or distributor
- The owner of the truck and trailer
Determining liability can be challenging. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers often consult leading expert witnesses, including accident reconstructionists, engineers, and commercial truck experts. We analyze all factors involved in the truck crash to identify the parties responsible for improperly loading the cargo to cause an uneven weight distribution.
Compensation You Could Receive After a Truck Accident in Atlanta, Georgia
Improper cargo weight distribution accidents can cause catastrophic injuries. Victims can sustain spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and many other injuries. The damages caused by those injuries can be extensive.
In most cases, victims can receive compensation for their economic damages, including lost wages, medical bills, and out-of-pocket expenses. They can also receive compensation for their non-economic damages, pain, and suffering.
Depending on the circumstances of the case, punitive damages could also be awarded in a civil trial. However, the facts of the case would need to support the legal requirements for a punitive damages award.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers To Discuss Your Case
A truck accident can cause millions of dollars in damages for accident victims. Let us help you get the money you need to regain your life after a tragic accident. Contact our law office to schedule a free case review with a truck accident attorney in Atlanta.
