Commercial Truck Accidents and Poorly Loaded Trailers: The Risks, the Regulations, and What to Do After a Crash

A tractor trailer that is fully loaded can weigh as much as 40 tons. Considering their immense size, it is crucial that commercial trucks are operated as safely as possible. One of the most overlooked trucking hazards is an improperly loaded trailer. In this article, our Spokane, WA truck accident lawyers explain the risks, the regulations, and what to do if you are involved in a crash caused by a poorly loaded trailer.

Overloaded or Poorly Loaded Trailers are Dangerous

A large commercial truck cannot operate safely unless it is properly loaded. When a truck’s trailer is overloaded or poorly loaded, it can dramatically increase the risk of an accident. The consequences can be catastrophic, even deadly. Improperly loaded trucks are at higher risk of crashing because:

• They require significantly more braking distance;
• They have trouble staying in a single lane;
• They are at risk of tipping over; and
• Cargo could end up filing off the vehicle.

Every commercial truck accident in eastern Washington must be investigated. It is often impossible for people at the scene to know exactly why the crash occurred. The full conduct of the truck company must be evaluated.

Trucking Companies Must Secure their Cargo

There are federal and state regulations in place regarding the loading of commercial trailers. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has cargo securement rules in place to ensure that tractor trailers are reasonably safe for public roadways. All companies involved in a commercial trucking operation have a responsibility to ensure that they are complying with relevant safety regulations. A negligent truck company can be liable for an accident caused by a poorly loaded tractor trailer.

Four Steps to Take after a Truck Accident in Eastern Washington

Following a commercial truck accident, you need to know how to protect your rights. You may not even be initially aware that the accident was caused by an overloaded or improperly loaded trailer. Here are four key steps you need to take:

1. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries;
2. Report the truck accident to the police;
3. Document the collision, including anything that suggests a poorly loaded trailer; and
4. Consult with a truck accident lawyer before speaking to the insurance company.

The primary goal of the personal injury claims process is to ensure that victims can get justice. To get justice, you need financial compensation to cover your damage, including vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Call Our Spokane, WA Truck Accident Attorneys for Immediate Help

At‌ ‌Albrecht‌ ‌Law‌ ‌PLLC, our Spokane truck accident lawyers know how to hold big commercial insurance companies accountable for paying claims. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a crash caused by a poorly loaded tractor trailer, we can help. Give us a call now or contact us right away for a free case evaluation. From our Spokane office, we represent trucking accident victims throughout East Washington, including in Grant County, Spokane County, and Adams County.