While the majority of truck accidents aren’t caused by poorly secured cargo, this problem needs to be taken seriously. According to government studies, issues with cargo and loads contributed to or caused about 7 percent of all truck accidents. That’s why it’s always important to give large trucks extra room on the road, and to avoid driving alongside a large truck for a long period of time if possible, especially on the highway.

The team at our Melbourne, FL law firm would like to take a moment to consider the hazards related to poorly secured loads and cargos on large trucks. Knowing what hazards are out there may help you avoid serious harm while commuting.

Unsecured Truck Cargo Falling Onto Vehicles

One of the biggest dangers to consider is cargo falling directly onto passenger vehicles. In these cases, the roof of a vehicle may be crushed by a particularly heavy object causing severe injuries. Simply blocking out or cracking the windshield can also result in poor visibility and a greater likelihood of collision.

As a reflex reaction, motorists may swerve to avoid the falling cargo, which means a greater risk of a multi-vehicle collision.

Dangers Caused by Debris on the Road

If the fallen cargo doesn’t strike vehicles immediately, the loads will be a major hazard because of their presence on the roadway. When debris is on the road, motorists may wind up striking or running over these items, resulting in serious vehicle damage if not a crash. Swerving to avoid debris on the road can also lead to serious sideswipe collisions with nearby vehicles.

Shifting Cargo Can Also Cause Dangers

Even if the load does not fall rom the large truck, it can still contribute to other kinds of accidents. A tractor-trailer may wind up losing control because of the shift in weight in the vehicle, which could lead to jackknifing. The shift in vehicle load could also result in the large truck turning over. Both of these incidents can be dangerous and deadly, increasing the risk of a multi-car pile-up.

Similar Problems with Pickup Trucks and Moving Trucks

We should also note that these issues with poorly secured loads can also affect pickup trucks and moving trucks. Objects may fly out or fall out from the bed of a pickup truck if not secured properly, leading to a number of dangers for people on the road. With moving trucks, there’s the risk of cargo coming loose if the door is note closed properly.

Holding Negligent Parties Liable

In all of these incidents, it is likely that an accident could have been prevented if someone acted responsibly. Perhaps the truck driver was negligent in securing the cargo, or perhaps the trucking company demonstrated negligence as well.

Whatever the case may be, our attorneys want to make sure that negligent truck drivers are held accountable for their actions. We will help you seek damages for medical expenses and lost wages to make your recovery easier and to help you move forward again with dignity.

What Should You Do After A Trucking Accident?

For more information about your legal rights after a large truck accident be sure to contact our team of Brevard County Trucking Accident Attorneys by calling 321-308-8020. We are here to help you and your loved ones in your time of legal need.

WE HAVE A HISTORY OF SUCCESS

IN BREVARD COUNTY


Over the past 40-plus years of helping Brevard County's injured and mistreated, our firm has obtained some $65 million in recoveries on behalf of our clients, highlighted by an $15.5 million product liability award.

The team at Charpentier Law Firm has the negotiation skills to reach favorable settlements in many cases, but also has the experience and perseverance to try a case to verdict whenever it is in the best interests of our clients. Our history of success illustrates our dedication to our clients and their pursuit of justice. Our personal injury attorneys in Melbourne, Titusville, and Cocoa are proud to offer superior legal representation to victims and their families throughout Brevard County and Central Florida.

WE HAVE
TWO LOCATIONS

IN BREVARD COUNTY


Melbourne Office

2290 W Eau Gallie Blvd

Ste 212

Melbourne, FL 32935

Titusville Office

719 Garden St

Titusville, FL 32796