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Trucks must be loaded in accordance with federal regulations to minimize the risk of cargo shifting during transit. An overloaded trailer could cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and crash.
Overloaded truck accidents in Fort Mill can cause a variety of injuries for the other drivers and passengers involved. If you were recently injured in such a wreck, you should strongly consider talking to a commercial vehicle crash attorney about your legal options.
The Risks of Overloading a Commercial Vehicle in Fort Mill
Federal law governs the weight limits for commercial trucks traveling through the area. Tractor-trailers are permitted to carry no more than 20,000 pounds for single axle vehicles or 34,000 pounds for tandem axle trucks. The limit for total vehicle weight is 80,000 pounds.
Any truck loaded in excess of these limits will put too much strain on the brakes, axles, tires, and springs. This could make it difficult for a driver to maneuver the tractor-trailer. Additionally, overweight cargo could cause essential auto parts to fail during transit.
If an overloaded truck is involved in an accident, the vehicle is more likely to roll over or jackknife. These types of wrecks can result in long-term or permanent injuries for other drivers involved. A qualified truck accident lawyer could help injured parties seek appropriate civil compensation after an overweight cargo wreck.
Proving Liability in an Overweight Truck Accident
Much of a plaintiff’s success in an overloaded tractor-trailer case depends on their ability to prove that a driver or trucking company violated federal guidelines regarding maximum weight. Even if the truck driver did not violate traffic laws or act recklessly, an overloaded trailer could be enough to establish liability.
The claimant but also demonstrate that the negligence of the overweight truck directly caused the accident that led to their injuries. A local attorney who focuses on overloaded truck accidents could help plaintiffs prove the liability of another party.
Seeking Compensation in an Overloaded Tractor-Trailer Claim
If an injured party can prove liability, they may be able to recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic losses may include lost wages, cost or car repair, or medical expenses.
Non-economic damages do not have an exact dollar amount. These losses could include pain, suffering, or emotional anguish. Retaining a skilled lawyer could help a plaintiff maximize their recovery in these cases following an overloaded truck wreck.
Talk to an Attorney About Overloaded Truck Accidents in Fort Mill
Overloading a truck is a violation of federal law, and this type of negligent act could result in a severe accident. If you were in a collision with an overweight tractor-trailer, you should not have to carry the financial burden of medical expenses and other damages. An experienced lawyer could help you pursue a civil claim to hold the liable parties accountable for their actions.
Our team could stand by your side through every aspect of your case. Call Schiller & Hamilton today to schedule a consultation and speak with an attorney about overloaded truck accidents in Fort Mill.