truck accidentsOverloaded trucks on icy roads can be hazardous for St. Louis motorists

When it comes to tractor-trailer safety, the size of the load and the distribution of the cargo are important factors. An 18-wheeler that is overloaded can be difficult to stop or control. Cargo that is not distributed evenly or secured well can shift suddenly and cause the truck driver to lose control of the vehicle.

For motorists in Missouri who share the roads and highways with fully-loaded trucks – especially during the winter when snow and ice are concerns — the weight and distribution of cargo can make the difference between an uneventful day and a disastrous one.

If you or someone you love has been injured or a loved one has been killed in a trucking accident, contact the Missouri personal injury lawyers at The S.E. Farris Law Firm. Call 314-A-LAWYER (314-252-9937) today for a free consultation.

Truck Driver Safety Precautions

There are several safety precautions that truck drivers and trucking companies should take before ever setting out on a delivery. If a trucking company or driver fails to follow these recommendations and an accident occurs, it could mean they are responsible for the injuries or damages caused in the crash.

The driver and company should:

  • Know the truck weight rating and axle weight rating.
  • Ensure suspension and coupling ratings are appropriate for the load.
  • When loading cargo of varying weight, place the heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
  • Make sure that the heavier items are evenly distributed rather than setting on one side of the trailer.
  • Check tire ratings and suspensions to make sure they are appropriate for the load and the driving conditions.
  • Check bracings and tie-downs before the trip begins and then check them periodically afterwards to ensure they remain intact.
  • Drive at slower speeds when hauling certain cargo like liquids that can shift and cause the driver to lose control.

Contact a St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a truck accident, contact the St. Louis personal injury lawyers at The S.E. Farris Law Firm as soon as possible. The time to pursue a claim against a negligent trucking company or driver is limited. Evidence that may help establish liability could be lost or destroyed as a result of a delay. Therefore, it is important to contact an experienced Missouri trucking accident attorney as soon as possible so that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident can be conducted and that your rights are protected.

Call 314-A-LAWYER (314-252-9937) today for a free consultation.

At The S.E. Farris Law Firm, our practice is focused on the needs of injury victims. We guarantee our clients that our dedication is more than just a motto. At the end of your case we measure our success not by the amount of money we have recovered for you but by whether you would give our name to others as good lawyers to have on their side.