Most drivers have witnessed loose debris flying off a truck on the highway or cargo that does not look entirely secure. It’s a scary sight, and for good reason – when cargo is not properly tied down, it can shift, fall off, or cause a serious wreck.
At Privette Law Office, we have seen firsthand how these accidents change lives. If you’ve suffered injuries because of unsecured cargo, you may be able to hold the responsible party accountable.
Why Unsecured Cargo Is So Dangerous
The risks are serious when cargo is not loaded or tied down correctly. Some of the possible dangers include:
- Objects Can Fly Off – A sudden turn, a bump in the road, or high speeds can send items tumbling onto the road. Other drivers may swerve to avoid debris, leading to collisions.
- Weight Shifts Can Cause Rollovers – In larger trucks, improperly secured cargo can shift, throwing the vehicle off balance and making rollovers more likely.
- Sudden Stops or Turns Become Deadly – If cargo isn’t evenly loaded, stopping quickly or taking a turn can send a truck out of control.
These dangers apply to both large commercial trucks and smaller vehicles like pickup trucks carrying furniture, equipment, or other items. A single mistake can lead to significant injuries or worse.
Common Injuries from These Accidents
Truck accidents involving loose cargo can lead to severe injuries, including:
- Head Injuries – If debris hits a windshield or forces a driver into a crash, concussions and brain injuries can occur.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – A sudden impact can cause severe damage to the back and neck.
- Broken Bones – High-speed crashes or rollovers often result in fractures.
- Lacerations and Burns – If hazardous materials spill, victims may suffer burns, and flying debris can cause deep cuts.
- Fatalities – Sadly, some of these accidents are deadly, leaving families devastated.
Who Is Liable?
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a crash caused by unsecured cargo, you have legal options, but who exactly can you hold responsible? Determining fault in these cases depends on several factors. Some of the parties that may be responsible include:
The Truck Driver
Drivers are responsible for making sure their cargo is loaded correctly. They may be held accountable for an accident if they fail to check their load.
The Trucking Company
In commercial trucking, the company that owns or operates the vehicle may be responsible for unsafe loading practices. If a trucking company cuts corners or fails to train its drivers properly, it could be at fault.
The Cargo Loading Crew
Many large trucks rely on warehouse or shipping yard workers to load cargo. If the loading crew didn’t follow safety guidelines, they might share responsibility for an accident.
The Pickup Truck Driver
Even smaller vehicles, like pickup trucks carrying furniture, appliances, or tools, can create road hazards. If a driver failed to secure their load, they could be held liable for the damage they caused.
Manufacturers of Defective Equipment
If a tie-down strap, latch, or cargo container fails due to a defect, the manufacturer of that equipment could also be responsible.
How Privette Law Office Can Help
If you or a loved one was hurt because of unsecured cargo, you shouldn’t have to deal with the aftermath alone. Privette Law Office is here to help you pursue justice. We will:
- Investigate the accident and gather the evidence needed to prove fault
- Identify who is responsible for the accident and hold them accountable
- Fight for the compensation you need, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering
- Handle all legal paperwork so you can focus on healing
Call Privette Law Office Today
Truck accidents caused by unsecured cargo are entirely preventable. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the right to take action, and you don’t have to handle the process on your own. If you were hurt because of falling or shifting cargo, contact Privette Law Office today for a free consultation.