Cargo that is not secured correctly can lead to devastating accidents. While the trucks carrying the cargo travel at high speeds, a lack of proper securing measures will cause the cargo to shift and potentially come loose from the truck. Moreover, shifting cargo can cause the vehicle to become unbalanced and more prone to certain types of accidents. If you’ve been injured due to a truck accident caused by unsecured cargo, seeking legal help is essential.
Why is Cargo Often Not Secured Properly?
Although a seemingly avoidable situation, improperly secured cargo is a rampant problem in the trucking community. The reasons for improperly secured cargo vary, but many times, the blame can be rightly placed on employers. For example, some employees are not adequately trained to secure cargo properly to trucks, causing them to make costly and sometimes deadly mistakes in the loading process.
Other times, corporate greed is the root cause of unsecured cargo. Companies sometimes overload their trucks in violation of state regulations to increase their profit margin on a haul. While the company may make more money, overloading the truck increases the likelihood that cargo will not be appropriately secured and prone to shifting during transit.
What Types of Accidents Does Unsecured Cargo Cause?
When cargo becomes unsecured, the truck hauling the cargo becomes a severe hazard for all motorists. As a result, various accidents can occur:
- Rollovers: Shifting cargo causes trucks to become imbalanced. A tight turn or weather hazard can cause the cargo to shift rapidly and take the truck with it.
- Jackknife Accidents: If cargo shifts with tremendous force, it may cause the truck’s trailer to swing to the side. The swing trailer can impact cars in the other traffic lanes, causing disastrous results.
- Falling Cargo: Unsecured cargo can come loose from the truck and land on the road. Sometimes, falling cargo may strike other vehicles on the road, causing death and severe property damage. Even if the cargo doesn’t strike a vehicle directly, it will become a dangerous obstacle that other drivers may not be prepared for.
- Overpass Collisions: Improperly secured cargo may exceed the truck’s height clearance. Failing to adhere to the vehicle’s height clearance can cause collisions when attempting to pass under bridges and overpasses.
No matter the specific type of accident, unsecured cargo creates extremely dangerous conditions that jeopardize the health and safety of all motorists.
Who is Liable for Unsecured Cargo Accidents?
Depending on the specifics, different parties may be liable for unsecured cargo accidents, including:
- Truck Drivers
- Trucking Companies
- Cargo Loaders
- Manufacturers
- Vehicle Maintenance Providers
It is essential to discuss your accident’s specifics with a skilled truck accident attorney. They will help investigate the situation and determine which parties should be included in potential lawsuits.
Contact the Colorado Truck Accident Attorney with the Will to Win
At Dulin McQuinn Young, we understand that an unsecured cargo accident can completely change your life. Injuries, property damage, and even death are typical results of these accidents. Luckily, we’re here to help. Our firm is known for taking the fight to insurance companies, corporations, and dangerous drivers across Colorado. Contact us today for a no-cost consultation to discuss your legal options.