Poor Cargo Loading Truck Accidents (Load Shift Accidents)

There are many reasons for a truck accident, but among them, the ones most preventable are load shift truck accidents. When a truck driver has to contend with poorly loaded cargo, it makes the vehicle even more difficult to control. If you’re involved in a load shift truck accident in New Jersey, you need legal advice and guidance to be fairly compensated for your damages. Call RAM Law.

What Does Poor Cargo Loading Look Like in Trucks?

One of the most common causes of truck accidents is from a load shift on or within the truck. Load shift truck accidents happen when the cargo is improperly loaded, secured or distributed, resulting in an imbalance. Poor cargo loading leads to decreased stability and truck accidents, such as truck rollovers, sideswipe accidents or accidents that force the truck off a road or bridge. Signs of poor cargo loading include:

• Uneven load distribution
• An overloaded truck
• Unsecured cargo

Reporting any of these signs to the relevant authorities may save yourself and others from an accident. Load shift truck accidents can result in a wide range of personal injuries, from minor to serious, including death. Common injuries from load shift truck accidents include:

• Cuts and bruises
• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Back or neck injuries
• Internal injuries

If you’ve been in a truck accident in New Jersey that may have been due to poor cargo loading, contact an experienced trucking accident attorney. The experts at RAM Law can answer your questions and take care of the details to make sure you’re fairly compensated for your injuries and losses. Get the guidance you need by contacting RAM Law for the best advice and representation.

What Causes Load Shift Truck Accidents?

Both truck drivers and trucking companies share responsibility for ensuring that the cargo is properly loaded and secured. Failure to do so may affect the cargo’s stability and balance, resulting in potential load shift truck accidents. Common causes of these truck accidents include:

• Lack of training or experience. When drivers haven’t received proper training, they may be unaware of the correct procedures, which, whether intentional or not, may be considered truck driver negligence.
• Poor road conditions. Load shift truck accidents can occur when the cargo shifts due to rough or uneven road conditions.
• Braking or turning too sharply. Sudden braking or turning can cause the cargo to shift, resulting in an accident at any time.

Determining liability in such a truck accident can be a complex legal process, so seek legal guidance. The liability in load shift truck accidents may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner or shipper
• Third parties, such as equipment manufacturers

Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Attorney?

A truck accident lawyer discusses the technicalities of a truck accident case that involves poor cargo loading or a load shift. By hiring an experienced trucking accident lawyer, you can expect:

• Liability determination. In load shift truck accidents, your attorney can determine the liability and hold the parties accountable for their actions.
• Damage assessment. Improper cargo loading often results in substantial damage and injuries. An attorney assists you in assessing the damages, ensuring that you’re fairly compensated.
• Navigation through complicated regulations. The trucking industry has complex rules. An attorney navigates the complicated regulations to protect your legal rights and options.
• Negotiations with insurance companies. Insurance companies may offer you a settlement that doesn’t cover all of your damages. Your attorney negotiates with the insurance companies to battle for fair compensation on your behalf.

Immediately after a truck accident, your impulse may tell you to accost the driver, but instead try to stay calm and concern yourself with your own safety. Follow the recommended steps that include:

1. Call the police. Report the accident immediately. Give the police accurate and comprehensive information about what happened.
2. Get medical attention. If you or anyone else involved in the collision may be hurt, seek medical care right away.
3. Exchange information. Get the truck driver’s contact and insurance details. Get witness information, if possible.
4. Document the scene. Take pictures and video of the accident scene, the damage and any injuries, if you’re able.
5. Contact a truck accident lawyer. You need legal assistance after a truck accident. Call RAM Law in New Jersey.

Can Load-Shift Accidents Be Prevented?

While it doesn’t always happen, all parties concerned must prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions to avoid these accidents. Accidents can be prevented in several ways, including:

• Proper cargo loading
• Proper weight distribution
• Adequate driver training
• Truck maintenance as required
• Care when passing trucks

To encourage the safe and secure transportation of cargo, New Jersey has several rules for the trucking industry. Trucking companies and drivers know and must follow these regulations, which involve:

• Cargo securement requirements
• Weight restrictions
• Hours of service
• Permit requirements
• Driver background checks

Discuss your load shift truck accident case with an experienced trucking accident attorney. Your lawyer from RAM Law handles the investigation, negotiations and litigation to make sure you get what you deserve. For all load shift truck accidents, contact RAM Law in New Jersey.