Monterey Truck Maintenance & Cargo Loading Accident Lawyer
Semi trucks carry large amounts of cargo from place to place. Despite their large size and federal regulations, many lack proper maintenance. It’s not uncommon for these large trucks to experience cargo loading errors as well as truck maintenance issues.
California is one of the states that leads in truck accident fatalities and these factors can definitely contribute to crashes. That’s why trucking companies need to follow regulations. If an accident occurs and someone is injured, the trucking company can be held liable.
Have you been injured in a truck accident? If so, Allen Law Firm can guide you through the process. Our Monterey truck maintenance & cargo loading errors lawyer will protect your legal rights.
Effects of Cargo Loading Errors
When a semi truck has been improperly loaded, the truck is at an increased risk of causing a fatal accident. Should a truck driver need to make a sudden lane change or brake hard to avoid a crash, the improperly loaded cargo could shift or even become loose. Here are some common accidents that occur due to improper cargo loading.
- Cargo spill accidents. When a semi truck loses its freight while moving, the cargo could fall off and hit the vehicle behind it. The cargo could also fall onto the road and create hazards that may result in accidents.
- Rear-end accidents. Improper cargo leading can lead to a rear-end accident when the truck driver is not able to stop in time to avoid hitting another vehicle.
- Rollover accidents. Heavy cargo can cause a semi truck to lose control and flip onto its side, especially when going around corners.
- Tire blowout accidents. If the freight on the truck is not correctly loaded or it exceeds recommended weight limits, there is an increased chance of tire failure. This can lead to loss of control and a serious accident.
Common Maintenance Issues
When certain parts of the semi truck are not properly maintained, they can malfunction and lead to a crash. Common maintenance issues include:
- Poor tire maintenance. Defective tires can malfunction. Worn or damaged tires can blow out and cause serious accidents. Air leakage, tread wear, and sidewall damage are signs of deteriorated tires. Using the wrong tires and mixing tire sizes can also lead to accidents.
- Brake failure. When brakes malfunction, multiple parties may be held liable, such as the driver, the trucking company, the maintenance company, and the brake manufacturer. The federal government has strict regulations on truck braking systems. If brakes do not meet these standards, the manufacturer could be held liable.
Contact Allen Law Firm Today
Semi trucks are prone to cargo and maintenance issues. Many trucking companies are trying to save time and money, resulting in catastrophic or deadly accidents.
The team at Allen Law Firm can guide you through the nuances of a truck accident. Contact a Monterey truck maintenance and cargo loading errors lawyer by calling (831) 264-0605 or filling out the online form.
