Truck accidents can occur for many reasons, and the aftermath can be devastating for victims. Whether the collision occurred due to a distracted trucker, faulty truck parts, or failure to adhere to federal regulations, those injured in a crash can hold negligent parties accountable for their losses.
However, when truck accidents happen due to improperly secured cargo loads, determining and proving who is liable can be challenging. Working with an experienced accident attorney can help you understand your options and increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
Dangers of Improperly Secured Cargo Loads
Improperly secured cargo loads pose significant risks to other motorists. When a truck’s cargo is not loaded, secured, or distributed correctly, it can shift during transport, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. In some cases, the cargo may fall off the truck, creating hazardous obstacles for other drivers. Common examples of improperly secured cargo include:
- Overloaded trucks
- Inadequate tie-downs or securing devices
- Unbalanced weight distribution
- Failure to inspect and maintain cargo securement systems
These negligent practices can lead to severe accidents, such as jackknife incidents, rollovers, or multi-vehicle pile-ups, resulting in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities.
Determining Liability in Improperly Secured Cargo Accidents
Establishing liability in accidents caused by improperly secured cargo can be challenging, as more than one party may be responsible for ensuring the load is safely secured. These parties can include:
- The truck driver – Responsible for inspecting the cargo and ensuring it is appropriately secured before and during transport
- The loading crew – Tasked with loading and securing the cargo according to industry regulations
- The trucking company – Must provide proper training and equipment for securing cargo and ensure compliance with safety regulations
- The cargo manufacturer or shipper – Responsible for packaging the cargo appropriately and providing accurate information about its weight and dimensions
To determine liability, your attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. They may also review the trucking company’s records to identify violations of federal or state regulations regarding cargo securement.
Pursuing Compensation for Your Injuries
If you have been injured in an accident caused by improperly secured cargo, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, including:
- Medical expenses, including ambulance rides, ER visits, doctor’s appointments, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care
- Lost income if your injuries have forced you to miss work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of quality of life
Be sure to maintain records of your medical treatment and costs, as well as documents demonstrating work missed due to your injuries. With this information, an experienced attorney can help you calculate the total value of your losses. They can also assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve by negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.
Contact Stein & Shulman, LLC Today
Accidents caused by improperly secured cargo loads can have life-altering consequences for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, it is crucial to work with a knowledgeable and experienced Chicagoland truck accident attorney who can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Stein & Shulman, LLC, our team has more than 60 years of combined legal experience in handling truck accident cases, including those involving improperly secured cargo. We are dedicated to providing personalized attention and aggressive representation to each of our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you on the road to recovery.
