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Overloaded trucks can be thrown off balance when they carry more cargo than state traffic and safety laws allow. Trucks already have a high center of gravity, making them more vulnerable to rollover crashes. When they are carrying too much cargo, it increases the chance of a severe and deadly collision.
The heavier a truck’s load, the more money the trucker can make per trip. However, overloading these vehicles creates a hazard for everyone on the roadways. When you have been impacted by the negligent decisions of a trucker or trucking company, schedule a meeting with a hard-working attorney seasoned in overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Texas City to learn more.
Massive commercial vehicles are challenging to control even in the best circumstances. When a driver needs to act quickly to avoid a crash, an overloaded or overweight truck is more challenging to handle and bring to a stop. The additional weight also significantly increases the risk of tire blowouts, rollovers, and losing steering control of the vehicle.
Because of these considerations, it is vital that truckers, trucking companies, and third-party companies that load cargo comply with the safety rules and regulations.
Overweight or improperly loaded cargo can easily lead to rollover accidents, which make up nearly 35 percent of all fatal truck crashes. A truck rolling over on its side can crush any other cars in the surrounding area, and cargo spills can create additional hazards.
Some of the common overloaded truck crash injuries include:
An attorney seasoned in overloaded/overweight truck crashes in Texas City can investigate to find the cause and evidence to prove fault and recover damages.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration FMCSA is the agency that assesses and regulates the maximum allowable length and weight of commercial vehicles, depending on the type of truck and cargo. According to the guidance of the Texas Transportation Code § 621.206, trucks may lawfully carry cargo loads that extend three feet past the front of the vehicle or four feet past the back.
The maximum weight of commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, is 80,000 pounds. This includes the weight of the 18-wheeler or other commercial vehicle plus the weight of the cargo. The maximum allowable weight is 20,000-pound single axle weight and 34,000-pound tandem axle weight. Truck drivers may be able to request a permit for specific circumstances that allow them to exceed the weight limit for a limited time.
Truck drivers operating overweight trucks in Texas can face fines of up to $150 for a first offense and up to $250 for a second. A citation for a third offense for operating overloaded commercial vehicles could mean paying up to $500 in fines.
The consequences for second and third offenses could also mean spending 60 days in the county jail. A legal professional skilled in Texas City overloaded/overweight truck crashes is available to answer specific questions about the process and potential damages during a consultation.
Truck accidents can have devastating effects and change your entire life within an instant. When they occur because of carelessness, you have every right to take legal action.
Truck drivers, companies, and other third parties must ensure compliance with federal and state laws or face criminal penalties and pay for the damages their negligence causes. When you get hurt by their decisions, we are here to help you fight for justice. Call our office to review your case regarding overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Texas City.
Lone Star Injury Attorneys, PLLC
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