Big-Rig Dumps Frozen Chickens on I-285 Raising Load-Related Trucking Accident Issues
While the massive bulk of an 18-wheeler generates enormous force when it collides with a passenger sedan that weighs only a fraction of the commercial truck's weight, some collisions are caused by cargo loads rather than a collision with the tractor-trailer. A recent spill of 38,000 pounds of frozen chickens on the I-285 ramp provides an example of the way an improper load on a big-rig can create obstacles that cause motor vehicle accidents. While this incident tied up the interstate for hours as the mess was cleaned up, it was fortunate that there were no accidents resulting in serious injury or fatalities.
When a tractor-trailer is improperly loaded or overloaded, the consequences can be just as horrific as when a collision occurs involving a tractor-trailer. There are strict regulations that govern the maximum weight of a load and requirements for properly securing the load. When tractor-trailers are overloaded or their cargo securement is improper, there are a variety of accidents that may occur, such as:
- Crashes caused by brake failure or tire blowouts because of excessive loads
- Multi-car pileups resulting from a vehicle trying to avoid cargo in the roadway
- Rollover trucking collisions or jackknife accidents because of shifting cargo
- Roof crush injuries from falling debris or loads
Although this is not a comprehensive list of the types of Georgia trucking accidents that may be caused by the failure to take reasonable care to safely load a commercial truck, these examples provide a pretty clear picture of the potential severity of a load-related tractor-trailer accident.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has enacted regulations that govern both maximum weight limits for fully loaded semi-trucks and standards for securing a cargo load. When a load-related accident occurs, an investigation may be necessary to determine the negligent conduct that caused the crash. While the shipper generally is responsible for properly securing a load, the driver has a duty to inspect the load. Our Peachtree Corners Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorneys often consult with trucking industry experts when attempting to determine the responsible party for a load-related collision and the dynamics involved in the collision.
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If you or a family member is injured in a trucking accident in Atlanta or anywhere throughout Georgia or the southeast, you may have the right to financial compensation for your injuries. Georgia and Atlanta Truck Accident Attorneys Montlick and Associates has been representing injury victims for over thirty years throughout all of Georgia and the Southeast, including all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. No matter where you are located our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.