What to Do When Falling Cargo Causes a Crash

 Posted on June 23,2024 in Car Accidents

Without trucks carrying their cargo from state to state, like in America, it would be very different. We have the privilege of being able to expect the same quality of clothing, food, and medications all across the country thanks to commercial trucks carrying our goods wherever people want them. However, cargo trucks present certain dangers on the roads. For example, improperly secured cargo can fall out of place and lead to a truck accident. If you were harmed by cargo not properly secured onto a truck, speak with a dedicated Des Plaines, IL personal injury lawyer to understand your options for seeking compensation.

Who Has Liability When Falling Cargo Causes a Crash? 

Any cargo being transported in a truck must be secured to ensure it stays in place while traveling. Truck cargo restraints ensure the security of the cargo and all the cars on the road. Properly securing cargo is an extremely important way to ensure roadside safety, which is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published regulations to abide by when loading and securing cargo onto a truck.

If unsecured cargo falls and causes a truck accident, liability could fall on several parties, including:

• The truck driver: Sometimes, the driver is responsible for ensuring cargo is secure inside the truck before driving off. Other times, the restraints are only expected to secure cargo as long as the truck is being driven reasonably, and if the driver is swerving, speeding, and coming to quick stops frequently, any issues stemming from cargo might be considered his responsibility.
• The truck company: If the company does not provide its driver with sufficient training or equipment for properly securing the cargo or conducting sufficient supervision, it might be liable for any accident caused by falling cargo.
• The cargo company: Sometimes, truck companies hire third parties such as cargo companies or moving companies to load the goods onto the truck and secure them inside it. If cargo falls from a truck after a company is hired to secure it onto that truck, that company could be responsible for your accident.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County, IL Personal Injury Attorney

If you are injured in an accident caused by falling cargo, speak with a qualified Schaumburg, IL truck accident lawyer. Someone else’s negligence led to your suffering, and at Grauer & Kriegel, LLC, we fight hard to get you the justice you deserve. Call us at 847-240-9010 to schedule a free consultation.