Truck Accidents Can Occur When Weight Capacity Is Exceeded
We at Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC know that accidents can happen any time and anywhere on the road for a variety of reasons. Because of this, we take all kinds of motor vehicle collisions seriously. This is especially true when it comes to accidents that involve large trucks. Whether these collisions take place in Salt Lake City or in other parts of the state, our firm will be there for the accident victims and their loved ones. Our auto accident attorneys will not be intimidated no matter who they face, and this includes corporate interests and those in positions of political power.
Right now, we want to look at trucking accidents given the kinds of hazards posed by these large vehicles. In particular, we want to look at truck accidents related to vehicles that exceed their weight and towing capacity and why this is such a dangerous practice.
Why Trucks Have a Weight Limit / Load Capacity
Trucks have a weight capacity based on the overall design of the vehicle and the power of its engine. This is a recommended upper limit of weight that a truck is allowed to tow simply to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive and operate. Going above this weight limit can lead to serious problems.
What happens when a truck exceeds its towing capacity?
When a large truck exceeds its towing capacity, it is no longer as stable or as safe to drive as it would be otherwise. Overloaded trucks are more likely to experience the following:
- Problems with steering/maneuverability
- Longer and slower braking times
- Greater likelihood of tire blowouts, transmission failure, broken axles, etc.
- Increased likelihood of vehicle rollover
- Higher probability of a load being unstable/unsecure
The Danger Is Real to Many Others On the Road
The overburdened truck is obviously a major hazard to the driver of the vehicle, but the above shows that such large trucks are a major hazard to others as well. These dangers all increase the likelihood of multi-car collisions and even fatal accidents on our roadways, and the great tragedy is that such matters are totally avoidable.
How Truck Drivers and Trucking Companies Can Ensure Safety
Both truck drivers and trucking companies need to be very attentive about the types of cargo that they carry and the amount of these goods as well. Not only should there be checks for such objects being secured properly, but there should be careful assessments of overall towing and weight capacity of each vehicle before they are allowed onto the road.
We Are Here for You and Other Innocent Motorists
When trucking companies fail to ensure safety in this regard, we will take them to task and make sure that they are punished for their negligence. Our hope is to improve the practices of the industry to avoid such tragedies from happening again.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
If you would like to learn more about your legal options following a serious truck accident, it's important that you contact our personal injury law firm today. The team at Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC looks forward to discussing your case with you in greater detail and helping you in your time of legal need.