Are Overloaded Trucks More Likely to Be Involved in Accidents?

 Posted on October 30, 2023 in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be devastating. Because 18-wheelers, big rigs, and other commercial vehicles are so much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, they can inflict severe injuries and even fatalities in a collision. One factor that can significantly increase the risk of a truck accident is overloading. When trucks are overloaded with cargo, it puts additional strain on the vehicle's components, affecting the truck’s overall stability and maneuverability. If you have been in an accident with a truck that had exceeded the allowed weight limits, an experienced attorney can help you ensure that this issue will be addressed correctly as you pursue compensation for your injuries.

The Dangers of Overloaded Trucks

Overloading a truck beyond its maximum weight capacity can have several dangerous consequences, including:

• Tire blowouts: Excessive weight places pressure on a truck’s tires, increasing the likelihood of blowouts while driving. A tire that deflates suddenly may cause a driver to lose control, leading to a collision with other vehicles.

• Brake failure: Overloaded trucks require longer stopping distances, putting extra strain on the brakes. This can lead to brake failure or reduced braking efficiency. If a truck driver is unable to slow down correctly, they may collide with other vehicles from the rear. They could also lose control when traveling at high speeds, leading to dangerous accidents on highways or freeways.

• Rollover accidents: The higher center of gravity caused by cargo that exceeds weight limits can make trucks more prone to tipping over when taking sharp turns or navigating uneven terrain. A truck that rolls over may block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to an accident involving several vehicles.

• Poor maneuverability: Overloaded trucks are more difficult for drivers to control due to their increased size and weight. This makes it harder for drivers to respond quickly to unexpected situations on the road, and they may be unable to avoid collisions.

The Legal Consequences of Overloaded Trucks

In Illinois and throughout the United States, there are strict regulations specifying the maximum allowable weights for commercial vehicles. These regulations are meant to help prevent accidents caused by overloaded trucks and protect the safety of all road users.

When a truck is involved in an accident, one of the first things investigators look into is whether the vehicle was carrying more weight than legally permitted. If it is determined that the truck was overloaded, this can result in significant legal consequences for both the driver and the company responsible for loading and maintaining the vehicle.

The penalties for operating an overloaded truck can include fines, license suspension or revocation, increased insurance premiums, and even criminal charges in cases where serious injuries or fatalities occur as a result of an accident involving an overloaded truck. An experienced attorney can help people who have been injured in truck accidents take legal action to address violations of weight limits or other forms of negligence that led to a truck accident.

Contact Our Plainfield Overloaded Truck Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident involving an overloaded commercial truck, an experienced personal injury attorney who has experience in these types of cases can protect your rights and help you obtain compensation for your injuries. At Flaherty Law, LLC, our dedicated Will County truck accident lawyer is ready to fight for your rights and help you obtain fair compensation for the damages you have suffered. 

To schedule a free consultation, please contact us at 815-577-7500. We understand how overwhelming dealing with a truck accident can be, and we are here to offer compassionate guidance throughout every step of the legal process.