The idea that something as large as a tractor-trailer can be too heavy to function properly might seem odd at first, but as with any machine, semi-trucks contain hundreds of individual components that can each only safely handle a certain amount of physical strain. Moreover, trucks carrying too much cargo take longer to accelerate, require more braking power to stop, and are harder to steer even on mostly straight highways than virtually any other type of motor vehicle.
When you consider all of these factors, it is easy to understand why overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Crown Point are so uniquely dangerous. If you are dealing with injuries from a wreck involving an illegally overweight tractor-trailer, a talented truck accident attorney from our team here at The Law Offices of David W. Holub could help you take legal action against whoever contributed to the accident.
How Heavy Are Trucks Legally Allowed To Be?
If a commercial truck is traveling on a route that crosses state lines, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations limit the total weight of that truck’s cab, cargo, and trailer combined, also known as the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), to 80,000 pounds. Additionally, no truck can put more than 20,000 pounds of weight on a single axle or more than 34,000 pounds of weight on any one tandem axle group, with the presumption being that the GVWR is divided evenly across all axles and axle groups.
States impose their own legal axle weight limit, but many of them are identical to the federal restrictions. Similarly, many states make a way for interstate trucking companies to apply for special permits in order to transport oversized loads within a particular state’s borders along a pre-approved route. In general, however, if a truck weighs more than 80,000 pounds or is carrying too much cargo for its axle layout, both the driver and the company that owns and operates the truck may be held civilly liable for injuries caused by a Crown Point traffic accident involving their overweight vehicle.
Holding a Law-Breaking Trucking Company Liable for Damages
Knowingly violating legal weight limits while loading a commercial truck qualifies as a violation of the duty of care that truck drivers and trucking companies owe to everyone with whom they share public roads. Anyone found to be at fault for causing physical harm through such a breach of duty can be made to pay financially for every negative effect their negligence has on the person who sustained that harm, including medical bills, lost work income, physical and psychological suffering, and more.
However, trucking companies that are willing to violate the law and overload their trucks may continue to do so by altering or destroying evidence connecting their misconduct to a wreck in Crown Point. Finding and preserving key information is one of many things our lawyers could assist with during a client’s legal proceedings.
Contact a Crown Point Attorney About an Overweight Truck Accident
Trucking companies that overload their trucks are not only breaking the law, but also putting their drivers and other people using the road at risk of life-altering and potentially life-threatening harm. Misconduct like this can serve as the basis for a civil lawsuit if it leads to an otherwise avoidable wreck. However, as many people unfortunately learn, taking legal action after overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Crown Point can be challenging, especially when you attempt to do so alone.
When you work with The Law Offices of David W. Holub, you improve your chances of holding the right people accountable for the truck accident that injured you. Call today for a free consultation.