Serious Accidents May Be Caused By Things Coming Loose from a Truck’s Trailer
Driving around a large commercial truck can be unnerving—especially so if it appears that the tractor trailer’s cargo may not be fully secured. Any goods or debris coming loose from a truck’s trailer can cause a catastrophic crash. Within this blog post, our West Palm Beach tractor trailer crash attorney provides a guide to semi-truck crash claims caused by loose cargo.
Federal Cargo Securement Requires are in Place
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets cargo securement safety requirements for commercial trucks that operate in interstate commerce. Most notably, these rules mandate that all loads must be firmly immobilized or secured on or within a vehicle using appropriate methods such as tie-downs, straps, and anchors that meet specific strength and durability standards. The regulations specify the minimum number of tie-downs required based on the length and weight of the cargo. Special provisions are outlined for particular types of cargo that are uniquely hazards—including logs, metal coils, and automobiles.
A Trucking Company Can Be Liable for Crashes Caused By Unsecured Cargo
What happens if cargo is not properly secured. It can be extraordinarily dangerous—especially so if the truck is moving at a relatively high rate of speed. In Florida, a trucking company can face liability if a serious crash results from unsecured cargo. Our state operates under a no-fault insurance standard for minor and moderate crashes. However, after a serious wreck, an at-fault trucking company can be held legally responsible for an injured victim’s damages. To hold a truck company liable for a serious crash in Florida, an injured victim must prove negligence. The failure to comply with cargo securement regulations is a form of negligence.
Injured Victims in Florida Deserve Full and Fair Financial Compensation
Following a semi-truck crash in Palm Beach County, injured victims need a settlement that covers their costs. Unfortunately, you cannot trust any insurance company to do what is right for you and your family. They put their own best interests first. Our West Palm Beach, FL semi-truck accident lawyers can help. We fight for the maximum financial recovery. Along with other types of damages, trucking accident victims may be entitled to recovery monetary compensation for:
- Property damage, such as vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance transportation and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other health care expenses;
- Loss of wages and diminishment of earnings;
- Pain and suffering & mental distress;
- Disability or disfigurement; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Consult With Our West Palm Beach, FL Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach commercial truck accident attorney is standing by, ready to help. If you were involved in a crash caused by cargo that came loose from a truck’s trailer, we are here to help. Give us a phone call now or connect with us online for a free case review. From our West Palm Beach law office, our team fights for truck accident victims all across South Florida.
Source:
fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/cargo-securement/cargo-securement-rules
