If you are a motorist or commuter in Texas, you would know that tractor-trailers are a common sight on Texas highways. Nonetheless, even if you are used to sharing the road with these commercial vehicles, you will never grow accustomed to the serious risks they pose.
A common factor that may lead to tractor-trailer accidents is the placement of cargo in the trailers.
Connecting the dots
Proper cargo loading and securing are crucial for maintaining the stability and control of a tractor-trailer. When loaders improperly place or fail to secure cargo, it can lead to a number of dangerous situations, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Weight imbalance: If the loaders do not distribute cargo evenly across the trailer, it can cause an imbalance which might result in a shift of the load during transport. This shift can alter the center of gravity of the trailer, potentially causing the driver to lose control, especially during maneuvers, such as turning or if they need to swerve to avoid an obstacle.
- Driver losing control: The placement and nature of freight can affect the driver’s control over the vehicle. For instance, overweight cargo can put additional strain on the vehicle’s braking and steering systems, reducing the driver’s ability to steer properly, which may lead to accidents.
- Potential for road debris: Unsecured cargo can move around and fall of the trailer entirely, which can become road debris that leads to accidents or causes other drivers to take evasive actions that result in crashes.
These are only some aspects of cargo placement and securing that could lead to dangerous consequences on the road.
Why it matters to truck accident victims
In these situations, it is crucial for victims or their families to thoroughly investigate the accident and invest in time and resources to build a strong case for their compensation claim. This includes investigating the accurate details of cargo loading and placement if the accident involves a tractor-trailer.