Unsecured Truckload Accidents

Unsecured truckload accidents in LA are a serious problem that can lead to significant injuries and property damage. When a truck’s cargo is not correctly secured, it can move during transport and cause the truck to become unstable, leading to accidents.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations that apply to commercial trucks operating in interstate commerce (trucks that travel across state lines). These regulations are designed to ensure that commercial trucks are operated safely and that their loads are properly secured.

The FMCSA regulations cover a wide range of issues related to loading and securing cargo, including:

Weight limits: The FMCSA has established weight limits for commercial trucks to ensure that they can be operated safely on the road.
Cargo securement: The FMCSA has established specific rules regarding how cargo must be secured on a commercial truck. These rules cover things like the type of tie-downs that must be used, the number of tie-downs required, and the weight and size of the cargo.
Inspections: The FMCSA requires commercial truck drivers and trucking companies to inspect their vehicles and cargo before and after each trip to ensure that everything is properly secured.
Driver training: The FMCSA requires commercial truck drivers to undergo training on how to load and secure cargo properly.
Penalties: The FMCSA can impose penalties on truck drivers and trucking companies that fail to comply with its regulations.

By establishing these regulations, the FMCSA is helping to reduce the risk of accidents caused by improperly loaded or secured cargo. However, accidents can still occur, and if you have been injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, it’s important to contact an experienced attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Accidents Due to Unsecured Truck Loads

Accidents due to unsecured truck loads can include:

Collisions with other vehicles: Cargo falling off a truck onto the road or onto other vehicles can cause collisions. This can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
Swerving to avoid debris: When cargo falls off a truck, drivers may swerve to avoid hitting it. This can cause them to lose control of their vehicle and potentially cause a collision with other vehicles or objects on the road.
Reduced visibility: Cargo falling off a truck can create a hazard on the road, which may reduce visibility for other drivers. This can lead to other accidents or collisions.
Tire blowouts: Unsecured loads can cause a truck’s tires to blow out, which can cause the truck to lose control and potentially cause an accident.
Road debris: Cargo that falls off a truck can also create road debris, which can cause accidents for other vehicles on the road. Debris can puncture tires, damage vehicles, or cause drivers to lose control.

Building an Unsecured Loads Injury Case

Building a case for injuries caused by unsafe or unsecured loads typically involves gathering evidence to prove negligence on the part of the trucking company or driver. Here are some steps that a personal injury lawyer may take to build such a case:

Investigation: A thorough investigation of the accident scene, including photos and video footage, can help identify any contributing factors, such as unsecured cargo or overloaded trucks.
Expert analysis: An expert can analyze the accident and determine if the trucking company or driver failed to follow safety regulations.
Witness statements: Eyewitnesses to the incident can provide testimony about what they saw leading up to the crash.
Driver records: Reviewing the driver’s records, including their driving history, can reveal any previous violations or accidents.
Company policies: The trucking company’s policies and procedures for loading and securing cargo can be examined to determine if they were followed properly.
Medical records: Medical records can be used to document the injuries sustained in the accident, as well as the cost of medical treatment and ongoing care.

By building a strong case that demonstrates negligence on the part of the trucking company or driver, an injured party can seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. A personal injury lawyer can provide guidance and representation throughout this process.

The Pacific Attorney Group Can Guide You

The Pacific Attorney Group can help guide you in building an unsafe or unsecured loads injury case. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys has helped many clients in Los Angeles and throughout California to recover compensation for injuries and damages resulting from truck accidents caused by unsecured loads.

We will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is liable. We will also negotiate with insurance companies and trucking companies to pursue a fair settlement or, if necessary, take the case to trial to fight for your rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by an unsecured load, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We can discuss your legal options and help you understand your rights.