Large trucks are a common sight on Texas highways. Whether it’s an 18-wheeler, a commercial delivery truck, or a big rig, these vehicles play an important role in moving goods across the state. But when cargo is overloaded or not secured the right way, these trucks become dangerous.
Accidents involving overloaded or poorly loaded trucks often lead to serious injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been hurt in one of these crashes, it’s important to understand what caused the accident and who is responsible.
This article explains the risks of overloaded trucks, who may be held liable, and what steps you should take right after an accident.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
Why Overloading or Improper Loading is So Dangerous
Trucks are built to carry a certain amount of weight. When that limit is exceeded, the truck becomes harder to control. Improperly loaded cargo can also shift during the drive, throwing off the truck’s balance.
Here’s how this can lead to accidents:
- Longer stopping distances: Heavy loads make it harder to stop, especially in emergencies.
- Increased risk of rollover: Uneven loads or high stacks raise the truck’s center of gravity.
- Falling cargo: Loose or unsecured items can fall onto the road, hitting other cars.
- Brake failure: Extra weight puts pressure on brakes and other truck parts.
- Jackknife accidents: When the trailer swings out, often due to shifting cargo or hard braking.
These issues affect not only the truck driver but everyone sharing the road.
For thoughtful, trial-tested representation from someone who truly understands what injury victims face, contact Attorney Matthew T. McLain at Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
Real-World Examples
- A delivery truck carrying too many pallets of bottled water loses control on a sharp curve. The truck tips over, spilling cargo onto a busy intersection.
- An 18-wheeler loaded with construction equipment has an unbalanced weight. On a highway ramp, the load shifts and causes a rollover crash.
- A semi-truck has its cargo stacked too high and not tied down properly. The items fall off and strike vehicles behind it.
In each of these cases, someone may be held responsible for the crash.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In truck accident cases, liability isn’t always simple. More than one party could be responsible, including:
The trucking company – If they overloaded the vehicle or didn’t train their staff properly.
The truck driver – If they failed to check or report unsafe cargo.
The shipping company – If they loaded the cargo incorrectly.
Maintenance contractors – If worn-out equipment contributed to the crash.
An experienced commercial truck accident attorney or 18-wheeler wreck lawyer will investigate every detail to figure out who is at fault.
What Should You Do After a Truck Accident?
If you’ve been in an accident with a commercial vehicle, your first priority is safety. But there are also steps you can take to protect your rights and build your case:
1. Call 911
Report the accident right away and request medical help if needed.
2. Take Photos and Videos
Document the scene, damage, injuries, road conditions, and any visible cargo issues.
3. Get Witness Info
If others saw the crash, ask for their names and contact details.
4. Don’t Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance
They may try to offer a quick settlement. Don’t accept or sign anything without legal advice.
5. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer
Work with a truck injury lawyer or commercial truck crash attorney who knows how to handle these types of cases.
Protecting Evidence: Why a Spoliation Letter Matters
Truck accident evidence can disappear quickly. Dashcam footage, GPS data, driver logs, and cargo records are often controlled by the trucking company. If they delete or lose these records, it becomes harder to prove your case.
That’s why your attorney may send a spoliation letter. This is a formal request that tells the company to preserve all relevant evidence. If they ignore it, they can be penalized in court.
Working with a strong commercial vehicle accident attorney or semi truck accident lawyer near me helps ensure this letter goes out quickly and clearly.
Why Legal Help is Important
Truck accidents are different from regular car crashes. The rules are stricter. The injuries are usually worse. And trucking companies have lawyers on their side from the start.
That’s why you need someone who knows how to fight back.
A skilled commercial vehicle injury lawyer or big rig accident attorney can:
- Investigate cargo issues
- Identify all liable parties
- Work with experts to analyze truck weight, load records, and brake data
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if needed
Whether it’s a car accident, defective product, or serious injury, Matthew T. McLain brings the skill and compassion you need. Reach out today to discuss your case.
Protect Your Case from Day One – Talk to Turner Monahan PLLC
At Turner Monahan, we’ve helped families across Texas for over 50 years. Our legal team knows how to handle complex truck accident cases, including those involving overloaded or improperly loaded trucks.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash with a commercial vehicle, don’t wait. We’ll give you clear advice, fight for your rights, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys, Tyler Monahan or Matthew McLain, to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
