Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accidents in Columbia

Commercial trucks are unwieldy, difficult to maneuver, and slow to respond to the actions of the operator. When they are improperly loaded or overweight, it can be even more difficult to bring them to a stop in time to avoid a collision.

Overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Columbia are unfortunately common and the results are frequently devastating, as a heavier truck is more likely to cause substantial damage to other vehicles in its path. A skilled truck accident attorney could review the factors that led to your injuries and assist you with your civil claim.

What Are the Dangers of Overloaded Trucks?

Two common mishaps that afflict overweight trucks are tire blowouts and broken axles. These incidents not only strain the vehicle’s mechanical components but also impede a commercial driver’s ability to control their rig. As a result, collisions with other vehicles become more likely, endangering the lives of other drivers on the road. Excess weight can also cause brake failure, extending an already long stopping distance and further putting other vehicles at risk.

These vehicles are inherently dangerous even when mechanical failures do not occur because heavy commercial trucks need more roadway to come to a complete stop. Trucks that are heavier that state or federal regulations may not be able to stop in time to avoid a rear-end crash.

When an attorney determines a truck involved in an accident in Columbia was indeed overweight or overloaded, it could serve as proof of negligence on behalf of the responsible party. It is the obligation of the driver and their employer to ensure the commercial vehicle complies with mandatory weight limits, and in cases where negligence is established, there may be an obligation for the at-fault party to pay damages to compensate for injuries caused by the crash.

Financial Compensation for the Injured

Collisions involving overloaded or overweight trucks in Columbia can cause a wide range of physical, emotional, and financial hardships. By establishing negligence as the cause of the accident, it could be possible for an attorney to secure a monetary award on behalf of an injured party based on what they lost in the crash. A variety of economic (financial) and non-economic damages are available.

Medical Bills

Medical care is expensive after an accident and can be an unexpected financial burden. When a negligence lawsuit is successful, the truck driver or their employer could be on the hook for any medical bills.

Lost Wages

One of the most important roles of an injury suit in these situations is recovering compensation for lost wages. Many people are too hurt to work after a crash, and these damages could replace the income they are unable to earn during their recovery.

Property Loss

In addition to physical injuries, people involved in accidents with overweight trucks typically experience substantial property damage as well. A successful lawsuit could pay to repair or replace a damaged vehicle.

Call an Attorney in Columbia After an Overloaded/Overweight Truck Accidents

When you were injured in a crash with an overweight commercial vehicle, you have the right to pursue justice, and you are most likely to get it when you have help from an experienced lawyer.

Let an attorney serve as your advocate while you pursue justice for your injuries from overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Columbia. Call today to schedule a private consultation.