Big Rigs and tractor trailer trucks are some of the largest vehicles on the road, weighing up to 80.000 pounds. Even with a light load, semi-trucks can cause severe damage if they are involved in a motor vehicle accident. There are federal and state regulations that limit weights on commercial trucks, but these regulations are not always followed. If an overweight big is on the road, it can cause serious damages if it is involved in an accident. Not only are they more likely to cause an accident, they can intensify the damages due to the excessive weight they carry.
The weight of a commercial truck affects how easily it can stop or maneuver. Adding more weight than allowed can make these large trucks harder to control, making them dangerous on the roadways. Most major highways have weigh-in stations where trucks are randomly weighed by law enforcement to ensure they are staying within the safety perimeters. Unfortunately, not all overweight trucks are caught, and some end up causing an accident.
Excessive Damages in an Overweight Big Rig Accident
When an overweight truck is on the road, it is due to negligence. The truck driver is responsible for ensuring his big rig meets the safety standards. His employer may also be responsible for any damages caused due to an overweight truck accident. When a truck is improperly loaded or carries too much weight, it is more likely to cause an accident. Due to the excessive weight, it may tip over or exert more force during the accident, causing more damage to others on the roadway.
If you or a loved one were in an accident with an overweight truck, serious injuries or a fatality are likely to occur. An overweight semi-truck will be slower to stop and could have thousands of extra pounds on top of the already heavy load. The fact that the big rig was overloaded alone can help prove negligence in the crash, giving you leverage to seek substantial financial compensation to cover damages.
Overweight truck accidents can be deadly or cause severe injuries that could change your life forever. If you live in the Visalia, Merced, Bakersfield or Fresno area, contact us at Maison Law to discuss your injury accident. We never charge our clients a penny unless we obtain a financial recovery for them in their case. Call us at 559-203-3333 or email martin@maisonlaw.com to schedule a free consultation.
