Partner
Accidents involving commercial vehicles and semi-trucks are among the most catastrophic and deadly forms of collisions on North Mississippi roadways. Unsecured and poorly secured loads often contribute to these deadly crashes. While everyone knows that a reckless driver can cause an accident, fewer realize the actions of a careless cargo-loading company can also lead to devastating physical and financial consequences for Mississippi drivers.
How Do Unsecured or Poorly Secured Loads Cause Accidents?
Commercial trucks are designed to haul goods from point A to point B. When those goods are not properly loaded and stowed onto the vehicle, they can negatively affect its stability, handling, and maneuverability. Shifting cargo can change the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more prone to tipping or rolling in the event of a turn or sudden stop. Cargo weight distribution is critical to proper vehicle function and maneuverability.
Moreover, unsecured or poorly secured cargo can come loose during transport, spilling out onto the roadway and causing accidents as drivers swerve in an attempt to avoid hitting it. Improperly secured cargo can also come loose after a crash, hitting the roadway and causing secondary accidents.
Types of Truck Accidents Caused by Unsecured or Poorly Secured Loads
Shifting cargo is a significant safety hazard and can lead to numerous types of catastrophic truck accidents, such as:
- Rollovers
- Jackknife accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Tipping during turns
- Falling cargo and debris accidents
- Hazardous materials accidents
Shifting cargo and unsecured load accidents can cause significant injuries such as traumatic brain injury, paralysis, amputations, and broken bones. These types of collisions can also lead to burns and exposure to hazardous materials, which can cause long-term medical complications.
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by an Unsecured or Poorly Secured Load?
After an accident, it is easy to point the finger at the truck driver, saying they are responsible for causing the collision. However, truck accidents are complicated, and more than one party may be liable for causing the crash.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires truck drivers, carriers, and loaders to follow specific cargo securement rules. Failure to comply with these regulations could make one of these parties liable for a resulting accident. And unfortunately, many truck drivers and cargo-loading companies skimp on proper loading and securing techniques to save time and money. Neglecting safe loading practices may shave time off everyone’s day, but that speed comes at a steep cost.
If you get hurt in an unsecured or poorly secured cargo accident, talk to an experienced truck accident attorney before accepting any money. More than one party may be liable for compensating you for your medical expenses and financial losses. Parties that may bear complete or partial liability include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
An attorney can investigate the cause of the crash, identify all liable parties, and help you recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Shifting cargo accidents can lead to life-altering injuries. Before you sign away your legal rights and accept a settlement from anyone, discuss your legal options with a knowledgeable North Mississippi attorney.
Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney for Help
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we understand how an unsecured load accident can change your life. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys want to help you pursue meaningful compensation for your injuries and hold careless drivers, trucking companies, and cargo-loading companies responsible for their actions.
Contact our office today and request a free case evaluation. We listen to you and are ready to advocate for you.
