Semitrailers and commercial trucks are larger and heavier than other types of vehicles on the road. When involved in an accident, they are capable of causing significant damage to smaller vehicles. Because of the damage they can cause, truckers and trucking companies have an obligation to be as safe as possible in how they operate their vehicles.
A large component of this is properly loaded cargo. When the cargo in the back of a semitrailer is loose or imbalanced, it can affect how easy it is to drive and control the vehicle. Imbalanced loads make it more likely an accident will happen that could leave innocent people injured. If you are the victim of a truck crash, it is possible that this specific safety concern played a role in what happened to you.
Safely loading cargo
Properly loaded cargo should be one of the main safety concerns for any Oklahoma trucking company. This is a priority in the safe operation of large and heavy trucks. Some of the specific ways these companies can load cargo safely include:
- Avoid overloading trucks as this may make a truck too heavy to brake and steer easily.
- Avoid stacking cargo too high as this can make it more likely it will shift or fall during transport.
- Make sure all cargo is secure before moving the vehicle, and do regular inspections during the trip.
The truck driver should inspect loads before driving, even if he or she watched or assisted with the packing of the truck. Giving special care when transporting cargo that could be dangerous or hazardous. Trucking companies should provide training on how to inspect loads, pack trucks, secure cargo and avoid cargo-related safety issues when driving.
Who is to blame?
After a truck accident, you may be unsure of what to do to pick up the pieces and move forward. It is possible you are the victim of the negligent operation of a semitrailer because of imbalanced cargo. If you suspect this could be the cause of your crash, you could have grounds to move forward with a civil claim. You may find it helpful to learn about how the civil justice system offers you a way to recoup your losses and hold liable parties accountable.
