Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accidents in South Windsor

Massive commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, have high centers of gravity, increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle and crashing. Due to the large size difference between these trucks and passenger vehicles, accidents can have catastrophic results. Truckers and their employers must ensure cargo in these semis is loaded correctly and does not exceed the maximum allowable weight to help prevent avoidable crashes. However, in some instances, trucking companies may disregard this requirement in order to increase their load and make more money.

Call a compassionate and hard-working lawyer who specializes in auto accident claims to recover damages after an overloaded/overweight truck accident in South Windsor to review your options.

Trucks Exceeding Weight Limits Are Hazardous

When an 18-wheeler is overloaded with cargo, the vehicle is even more challenging to control, and the operator is at higher risk of causing an accident. The additional weight can also cause instability, resulting in a rollover during collisions. Additionally, overloading increases the chance of brake failure and tire blowouts as well as unsecured cargo falling out of the truck onto the road or passing vehicles.

Not only does overloading the vehicle place the driver and other motorists at risk of harm, but it can also cause significant damage to bridges and roadways. Federal laws strictly regulate the weight limits for the trucking industry. Liability for failure to comply could fall on the driver, their employer, or the third-party company responsible for loading and unloading the freight. At Berman, Russo & Merwin, our South Windsor attorneys understand trucking industry regulations and could review the details of an overloaded/overweight truck crash to determine compliance and who should be held at fault for damages.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

People involved in South Windsor collisions with overloaded trucks can sustain a varying range of injuries during the crash. Some of the common injuries include:

• Severe crush injuries
• Traumatic amputations
• Head and skull damage leading to traumatic brain injuries
• Severe burns, scarring, and disfigurement
• Bodily trauma from seatbelts, including internal bleeding and organ damage
• Face and dental damage sustained from the forceful impact with airbags
• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
• Wrongful death

The type and severity of injuries have a direct impact on the amount of compensation available after a wreck. Our team could help gather evidence and information that establishes the full effect of a person’s harm to craft a settlement demand that fully represents their needs. Successful claims could reimburse an injured motorist for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, lost enjoyment of life, and more.

Trucking Industry Weight Restrictions

State legislation regulates the maximum load and weight of 18-wheelers passing through the state. Per the guidelines of the Connecticut General Assembly, while there are some exceptions based on the truck’s specifications, the maximum weight limit based on the number of axles is as follows:

• 53,800 pounds for two axles
• 58,400 for three axles
• 67,400 pounds for four axles
• 73,000 pounds for five-axles

There are also weight limitations on bridges within the state, and truckers must ensure they understand and comply with the rules or face penalties. During the consultation, an expert lawyer qualified to handle claims resulting from overloaded/overweight truck crashes in South Windsor could answer specific questions about the rules, regulations, and civil court damage recovery process.

Call a Qualified Attorney About South Windsor Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accidents

While crucial for transporting goods nationwide, the substantial size of semi-trucks puts those traveling near them at risk of severe accidents with catastrophic consequences. Because of this, federal and state laws strictly regulate the maximum allowable weight for any traveling within Connecticut.

When someone sustains bodily harm and property damage because of non-compliance, civil laws allow the injured person to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. A diligent lawyer seasoned in handling lawsuits from overloaded/overweight truck accidents in South Windsor could provide sound legal advice to help you through the claims recovery process and collect a just settlement. Call today for more information.