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Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo Truck Accident Lawyers in Oklahoma City
Talk to us when you’re injured by an overloaded or improperly loaded truck in Oklahoma
Here in Oklahoma City, we see our fair share of heavy traffic, including large commercial trucks transporting goods across the state or beyond. These trucks play an important role in our economy but they also pose significant risks when not properly maintained or loaded. One of the most dangerous situations involves overloaded or improperly loaded cargo – which can lead to serious accidents, devastating injuries, and even fatalities.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident because of an overloaded or improperly loaded truck, the Oklahoma City lawyers at Cunningham & Mears can help. Talk to us today to find out the answers to your questions, as well as how we can help you seek the compensation to which you are entitled.
How can we help?
- Why is proper cargo loading so important?
- What causes overloaded or improperly loaded cargo?
- What are common Oklahoma City accidents caused by improper cargo loading?
- Who is liable for an overloaded or improperly loaded cargo truck accident?
- What should I do after an Oklahoma City overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accident?
- How can your Oklahoma City overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accident lawyers help?
- How can I prevent overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accidents?
- Do you have an overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accident lawyer near me?
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Why is proper cargo loading so important?
Large tractor-trailers are designed to carry substantial loads, but they do have limits. Cargo must be loaded correctly to ensure the truck remains balanced, stable, and safe to operate. When cargo is improperly loaded or exceeds weight limits, it can create dangerous situations for everyone on the road. These risks can include:
- Unevenly loaded or excessive cargo can shift during transport, causing a truck to become unbalanced and more likely to roll over.
- Overloaded trucks also put extra strain on braking systems, increasing the risk of brake failure and reduced stopping distance.
- Extra weight can lead to tire blowouts, which can cause a driver to lose control of their truck.
- Improperly secured cargo can fall onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers.
- When cargo shifts unexpectedly, it can cause the trailer to swing out of alignment with the cab, resulting in a jackknife accident.
What causes overloaded or improperly loaded cargo?
These types of accidents often stem from negligence or carelessness during the loading process. Here are some common causes of accidents:
- Commercial trucks are subject to strict weight regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Oklahoma state laws. When trucking companies or loading companies ignore these rules, they put everyone on the road at risk.
- Cargo must be evenly distributed to maintain a truck’s center of gravity. Uneven loading can cause a truck to lean to one side, making it more prone to tipping or rolling over.
- Improperly secured cargo can shift or fall off the truck, endangering other drivers and pedestrians. This is particularly dangerous with loose items, like pipes, logs, or construction materials.
- The trucking industry is fast-paced, and loaders may cut corners to save time, resulting in improperly loaded or unsecured cargo.
- Sometimes, the people responsible for loading commercial trucks lack proper training on how to distribute and secure cargo safely.
What are common Oklahoma City accidents caused by improper cargo loading?
Here are some of the most common types of accidents caused by improper cargo loading:
- When cargo shifts or exceeds weight limits, it can cause the truck to roll over, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops.
- Overloaded trucks require longer stopping distances. If a driver can’t stop in time, they may rear-end another vehicle.
- Improperly secured cargo can fall onto the roadway, striking other vehicles or forcing drivers to swerve to avoid the debris.
- The extra strain on an overloaded truck’s braking system can cause the brakes to fail, leading to catastrophic accidents.
- If cargo shifts unexpectedly, it can cause the trailer to swing out of alignment, resulting in a jackknife accident.
Who is liable for an overloaded or improperly loaded cargo truck accident?
Because multiple parties may share responsibility, determining liability in a truck accident involving cargo issues can be complicated. Here are some of the parties that could be held liable:
- Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles comply with weight regulations and that cargo is loaded safely and securely. If they fail to enforce these standards, they can be held accountable.
- The individuals or parties responsible for loading the truck need to follow proper loading procedures. If their negligence caused the accident, they could be liable.
- Drivers are required to inspect their vehicle and cargo before hitting the road. If a driver fails to perform these checks or knowingly operates an overloaded truck, they may also share responsibility.
- In some cases, defective equipment – like faulty straps or improperly functioning brakes – can contribute to an accident. The manufacturer of the defective part can be held liable.
What should I do after an Oklahoma City overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accident?
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by overloaded or improperly loaded cargo, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages and losses. Here’s how you can protect your rights and build a strong case:
- Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries only seem minor, see a doctor to document your condition and make sure you receive the care you need.
- Call the police to report the accident and ensure they file an official report. This report will serve as critical evidence in your case.
- If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Also, collect contact information from witnesses.
- Consult with the Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers at Cunningham & Mears. Our skilled lawyers can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
How can your Oklahoma City overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accident lawyers help?
Our dedicated Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases can present. Here’s how we can help:
- We work to uncover the exact cause of your accident, by examining police reports, driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data.
- Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties. We identify everyone who may be responsible for your injuries to help maximize your compensation.
- Because insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims, we’ll handle all negotiations to make sure you secure the compensation you deserve.
- We fight for fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How can I prevent overloaded or improperly loaded cargo accidents?
While you can’t control how trucking companies operate, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of being involved in an Oklahoma City cargo-related accident:
- Stay far enough behind large trucks to avoid debris or accidents caused by shifting cargo.
- Avoid lingering in a truck’s blind spots, where the driver may not see you.
- If you see a truck that appears overloaded or has unsecured cargo, report it to local authorities.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards when driving near large trucks.
Talk to our overloaded/improperly loaded cargo accident lawyers today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident caused by overloaded or improperly loaded cargo in Oklahoma City, don’t face the aftermath alone. These cases are often complicated, requiring a deep understanding of federal and state regulations. The experienced Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers at Cunningham & Mears are here to help you navigate the legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and moving forward with your life. To learn more, call our offices or fill out our contact form.
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