How Cargo-Loading Errors Cause Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, especially when caused by improperly loaded cargo. Commercial trucks must adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding cargo weight, balance, and securement. When these rules are ignored, cargo shifts, spills, or even causes the truck to overturn, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Overloading Beyond the Truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Each truck has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which determines the maximum weight it can safely carry, including the truck itself, cargo, fuel, and passengers. When cargo loaders exceed this limit, it increases braking distance, reduces maneuverability, and puts excessive strain on tires and axles. Overloaded trucks are more prone to brake failure and tire blowouts, leading to catastrophic accidents.

Loading the Cargo Haphazardly and Unevenly

Cargo must be distributed evenly to maintain the truck’s balance. When cargo is loaded haphazardly or concentrated in one section of the truck, it creates an uneven weight distribution. This can make turns dangerous, increase the risk of rollovers, and cause the driver to lose control. Unevenly loaded cargo can also shift unexpectedly, making it harder for the driver to correct the truck’s movement in time to avoid a crash.

Loading Top-Heavy Cargo

Certain types of cargo, such as heavy machinery, logs, or stacked pallets, can create a high center of gravity if not loaded properly. When a truck is top-heavy, it becomes far more susceptible to tipping over, especially during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations require that cargo be loaded in a way that prevents excessive movement, but failure to follow these guidelines can lead to serious accidents.

Failure to Block the Cargo from Sliding

Cargo that is not properly blocked or braced inside a truck can shift while the vehicle is in motion, causing sudden weight imbalances. This is particularly dangerous in enclosed trailers or box trucks where improperly secured cargo can slam into the walls or doors of the container, creating a sudden shift in weight that makes steering difficult. Blocking and bracing materials such as load bars and wooden blocks are essential to preventing cargo from sliding inside the truck.

Stacking Cargo Near the Flatbed Trailer’s Outer Edge

Flatbed trailers are designed to carry large and heavy loads, but when cargo is stacked too close to the edges, it becomes vulnerable to falling off during transport. Uneven distribution on a flatbed also increases the likelihood of the truck tipping over. Cargo should always be centered and adequately secured to prevent any movement that could compromise the truck’s stability.

Failure to Use Proper Cargo Restraints

Cargo must be secured using appropriate restraints such as chains, straps, or tie-downs that meet industry standards. When improper restraints are used, or when they are not tightened correctly, cargo can shift, fall off the truck, or cause balance issues that lead to rollovers. The FMCSA has strict cargo securement regulations, and violating these rules can result in legal liability in the event of a crash.

Failure to Secure the Cargo Tarp

Many flatbed trucks use tarps to cover their cargo and prevent debris from flying off onto the roadway. However, when a tarp is not fastened correctly, it can loosen during transit, obstructing the driver’s visibility or becoming a hazard for other vehicles. A poorly secured tarp can also cause cargo to become unstable, leading to load shifts that compromise the truck’s handling.

Using Old or Worn-Out Ropes to Secure Cargo

Using damaged or worn-out ropes and straps to secure cargo is a major safety hazard. Over time, exposure to weather and constant tension weakens these materials, making them more likely to snap or break under pressure. When this happens, cargo can become loose and create a dangerous situation for both the truck driver and other motorists. Regular inspections and replacements of securing equipment are essential for preventing accidents.

Using an Irregular Cargo Net That Fails to Cover the Full Load

Cargo nets are commonly used to secure loose or lightweight items on flatbeds, but when an irregular or improperly sized net is used, it may not provide full coverage. Gaps in the netting can allow cargo to shift or fall off, creating road hazards for other vehicles. Ensuring that cargo nets are appropriately sized and properly installed is crucial for maintaining road safety.

Loading Dangerous Goods or Hazardous Materials Without a License

Trucks carrying hazardous materials such as flammable liquids, toxic chemicals, or explosive substances must comply with strict federal and state regulations. Drivers must have the proper endorsements on their commercial driver’s license (CDL), and cargo loaders must ensure that hazardous materials are packaged and secured according to regulatory requirements. Transporting dangerous goods without the necessary precautions increases the risk of leaks, spills, fires, and explosions, putting lives at risk and leading to potential environmental hazards.

Maximize Your Compensation with Our Texas Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by improper cargo loading, you need a legal team that understands how to investigate these complex cases. At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we have the experience, resources, and commitment to hold negligent trucking companies accountable and recover the highest possible compensation for your injuries and losses.

Our Texas truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win. To schedule your free consultation, call us 24/7 at 888-298-4070 or contact us online.