Commercial transportation vehicles carry heavy cargo over long distances, often for hours at a time, so manufacturers build them to be strong and sturdy. Despite this, they have limitations on how much they can hold. Unfortunately, some companies choose to ignore these limits, putting their drivers and everyone else in danger.
If a collision with a heavy semi-truck injured you, a commercial truck accident attorney at Singleton Schreiber Injury Attorneys could help you file a claim for financial compensation. Our team has the experience necessary to navigate overloaded/overweight truck accident cases in Birmingham and could help you hold the company accountable for its actions.
Explaining Weight Limits for Commercial Vehicles
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) indicates the total amount of weight that a truck can safely handle, including its cargo, the vehicle body, the engine, and the driver. While every make and model of 18-wheeler has a different GVWR, the United States Department of Transportation caps the maximum at 80,000 pounds for vehicles on interstate highways.
The number and types of axles under the truck determine its GVWR. These are critical parts of any vehicle’s function because they transfer power from the engine to the wheels and, perhaps more importantly, they distribute the weight over a large area to keep it balanced. The more axles, the more weight the trailer can carry.
Cargo loaders and truck drivers must be aware of their vehicle’s GVWR and ensure the load does not exceed it. Exceeding that limit could place unnecessary strain on the axles and tires, leading to blowouts and breakage during transit. An overburdened semi-trailer could also create an unbalanced load, which significantly increases the risk of rollover crashes and jackknifing on Birmingham highways.
Since passenger cars are smaller than large trucks, a collision can leave you with devastating injuries. If that happens, you may be able to file a claim seeking compensation.
Who Could Face Liability for Exceeding Weight Restrictions?
Federal and state weight limits exist for several reasons. One is to reduce the risk of accidents. Another is to protect roads and bridges from excessive wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
Some trucking companies ignore the limits that regulators and their own fleets set. They may do this to carry more cargo than the vehicle can safely transport to increase their profits. It may also be the result of a cargo loader who was not paying attention. An employer is responsible for the conduct of its employees and must ensure that everyone complies with all regulations.
If a deliberately or negligently overloaded 18-wheeler causes a collision in Birmingham, the company could be at fault and liable for the accident. This could allow you to seek compensation from the company’s insurance carrier. An experienced lawyer from our firm could help you through this process so you can focus on healing.
Contact a Birmingham Attorney for Help After an Overweight Truck Collision
Everyone can help avoid overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Birmingham by following the applicable traffic rules and guidelines. If someone hurt you by exceeding safe or legal weight limits, you may be able to take legal action.
At Singleton Schreiber Injury Attorneys, our lawyers take pride in representing victims like you against corporate decisions that put others in danger. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our team.
