Each year, hundreds of accidents involving big rigs and other commercial trucks occur in California. While many involve collisions between passenger vehicles and 18-wheelers, some are caused by lost or unsecured loads. When cargo from a semi-truck becomes dislodged and causes injuries or fatalities, multiple parties may be held liable. In these cases, a truck accident lawyer can help identify the responsible parties and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Determining Liability in Unsecured Load Truck Accidents
When a big rig loses its load, liability can fall on several parties depending on the circumstances. Here are the main parties who may be held responsible:
- Trucking Company: Trucking companies are required to adhere to strict rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding the loading and securing of cargo. They must use proper securement systems, tie-downs, and anchors to prevent shifting or falling loads. If a company fails to comply with these regulations, causing a load to fall or shift, it may be held liable for resulting accidents.
- Truck Driver: Drivers are responsible for ensuring their load is secure before taking to the road. If a driver fails to check the load or operates the vehicle in a way that causes the cargo to shift—such as using improper braking techniques or making sharp turns—they could be held accountable. The trucking company may also be liable under vicarious liability if inadequate training or oversight was a factor.
- Third Parties: In some cases, a third-party cargo-loading company may be responsible for improperly securing the load. If they fail to load the truck correctly or do not use the proper securement techniques, they may be held liable for damages resulting from an unsecured load accident.
Federal Load Securement Rules
The FMCSA mandates specific guidelines for securing loads, especially for trucks carrying hazardous materials. These rules require the use of certain securement systems, anchor points, and tie-downs to minimize the risk of loads falling or shifting during transport. Failure to comply with these standards can result in serious accidents, including jackknifing or rollovers that put other motorists at risk.
Should You Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Unsecured load accidents often result in severe injuries and complicated claims involving multiple parties. An experienced truck accident lawyer can handle all aspects of your case, including investigating the crash, identifying responsible parties, and pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Hiring an attorney allows you to focus on recovery while increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Contact LA Law Group Today
If you were involved in an accident caused by an unsecured load, contact LA Law Group to schedule a free consultation. Our attorneys can review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Reach out today to learn how we can support you in your recovery.
