Tractor-trailer trucks that are overloaded or overweight can pose a significant risk to other vehicles on the road. Not only does it increase the chances of an accident, it can cause more severe damage. Despite the fact that there are regulations that determine how much cargo a semi-truck can carry at a time, many truck accidents are caused by overloaded or overweight trucks.
If you or a loved one were injured in an overloaded or overweight truck accident in Woodbridge, you may be wondering about your legal options. A serious injury can cost you thousands in medical expenses and impact your ability to earn a living. Fortunately, our team of experienced truck accident attorneys can help you pursue compensation from those responsible. To schedule a free consultation, contact Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC.
The Risk of Overloaded or Overweight Trucks
Trucking companies and their drivers are required to adhere to regulations concerning cargo limits to reduce the risk associated with overloaded or overweight trucks. The dangers of operating a truck that exceeds its designed capacity far outweigh any short-term benefits to the trucker or their employer. Overloading can lead to several critical issues:
- Loss of Control: Trucks carrying more weight than they can handle are harder to steer and brake, increasing the risk of accidents
- Tire Blowouts: Excess weight accelerates tire wear and raises the risk of blowouts
- Structural Damage: Overloading places undue stress on the truck’s chassis and other components, potentially causing structural damage
- Increased Risk of Rollovers: Trucks that are overloaded are more prone to rollovers, especially on curves or during sudden maneuvers
While unsafe driving behaviors are often cited as causes of truck accidents, overloaded or overweight trailers contribute significantly to the risk. These conditions make it more challenging for truckers to control or stop their vehicles, leading to potentially devastating consequences. If you are affected by such an accident, a Woodbridge Township overloaded or overweight truck accident attorney can help you explore your options for compensation.
Recoverable Compensation After an Overloaded or Overweight Truck Accident
Truck companies sometimes deliberately overload their vehicles to cut costs or save time. When they compromise safety to boost their bottom line, they can be held accountable for the resulting harm. Whether the truck was overloaded or not, the damages from a truck accident can be severe. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Covers the costs of hospital visits, surgeries, and ongoing treatment
- Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost due to the inability to work
- Reduced Earning Potential: Covers potential future income loss due to long-term effects of the injury
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident
- Emotional Trauma: Addresses the psychological impact and trauma caused by the accident
- Vehicle Damage: Covers the costs associated with repairing or replacing damaged property
To secure compensation, it is generally necessary to prove that the truck driver or company acted negligently, either by knowingly overloading the truck or failing to ensure it was within safe weight limits. Our team can gather critical evidence such as accident reports, truck records, accident reconstruction reports, and witness statements to build a compelling case after a Woodbridge overloaded truck wreck.
Speak With a Woodbridge Overloaded or Overweight Truck Accident Lawyer
Overloaded or overweight trucks significantly jeopardize the safety of other road users. If you have been injured in an overloaded/overweight truck accident in Woodbridge, it is crucial to consider legal action against the trucker and the trucking company. You should not have to deal with the aftermath of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Contact the attorneys at Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case.