Dangers of Overloaded Trucks

Overloaded truck accidents can be fatal. There are strict government regulations on the weights of trucks for this very reason. The GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of a truck is not supposed to surpass 80,000 pounds, yet many trucks on the roads at this very second are well above above this number.

When drivers of overloaded trucks take sharp turns, they can tip over. Anything in the way will be destroyed. It may even result in the death of a pedestrian. Cars in the way do not have a chance when it comes to a 90,000 lb truck. The tipping of trucks frequently occurs in u-turns under highways, street driving, and on the on and off ramps of highways and interstates.

Besides the direct effects of an overturned semi, these accidents may destroy a vehicle and cause a gas leak. This becomes an extreme hazard to anyone passing by. One spark can cause a fire or explosion. And any accident with an overturned truck will cause a large backup of traffic and chaos, particularly in a city environment.

Driving in hilly areas is particularly dangerous for an overloaded vehicles. Brake failure occurs even without a truck being over the weight limit. With every additional pound the trucks become more likely to experience difficulty in mountainous regions. A truck that is difficult for a driver control is exceptionally dangerous.

So why do companies sometimes overlook these safety regulations? It is profitable. An 18-wheeler driving across the country costs thousands of dollars in gas. Truck drivers are paid well, and the less salary the company must pay, the more money they save. Letting a truck drive over the weight limit is a dangerous game to play. Every year people die and are seriously injured when trucks push the limit of their allowed weight. Trucking laws are in place to keep people safe on the roads and should be respected.

Visit the website of the Bronx truck accident attorneys of Parker Waichman Alonso, LLP for more information on the dangers of overturned vehicles.