Commercial trucks are a vital part of the economy, playing a crucial role in the transportation of goods. However, the size and weight of these vehicles can also make them highly dangerous on the road when their cargo is not properly secured and balanced.
When a truck has an unevenly distributed load, it becomes difficult to handle and may even tip over or lose parts of its payload onto other drivers. This poses a serious threat to other motorists on the road, so it's essential that truckers take extra care to ensure loads are always properly loaded before leaving for a delivery.
Not only does this reduce risk but also saves money on repairs and investigation costs if an accident occurs due to improper loading. Thus, skimping on safety precautions can have huge repercussions, so proper loading is essential for both safety and cost savings in the commercial trucking business.
Uneven or Overloaded Trucks are Subject to Turnovers
Trucking is a critical component of our economy, but if truckers are not careful in their hauling, it can lead to disastrous results. Uneven or overloaded trucks are particularly prone to causing turnovers due to the hit they receive while going over bumps or dips in roadways. This can cause damage to both the truck and its cargo and also affects the driver and other travelers on the road.
Fortunately, there are ways that truckers can take action to reduce their chances of experiencing a turnover due to uneven loading or overloading by carefully monitoring the weight they're carrying while loading their trucks and making sure that everything is securely fastened down.
It’s More Difficult for Overloaded Trucks to Stop
Unfortunately, this seemingly harmless presence comes with consequences; overloaded trucks weigh more and have a much harder time braking for obstacles in their path. This makes it tougher for them to stop in time when unexpected events occur such as animals running across the road in front of them or the sudden appearance of traffic slowdowns.
In fact, tests have shown that an 18-wheeler full of cargo has around 40 percent less stopping power than an empty truck and up to 90 percent fewer stopping capabilities when exceptionally overloaded. For the safety of other drivers, it is important that commercial truck drivers responsibly follow loading instructions and remain mindful of their stopping strengths while behind the wheel.
At LaMarca Law Group, P.C., our Des Moines truck accident lawyers work to help you when you need it most. Trust that our team will be there for you every step of the way. We’ve got you covered!
Call us at (515) 705-0233 today and learn how we can help you!