How Can Cargo Cause Truck Accidents?

 Posted on April 24, 2025 in Truck Accidents

Drivers share the road with millions of semi trucks in Texas every year. They rely on these trucks and the parties responsible for them to maintain safe practices, loading and driving them with care. Loose cargo truck accidents can happen under many different circumstances, and the victims of improperly loaded cargo can suffer serious injuries and damages as a result. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident caused by loose cargo, an El Paso County, TX truck accident attorney can help you navigate complicated liability laws and recover compensation for your losses.

What Are Common Ways Cargo Mistakes Can Cause Truck Accidents?

Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can result in truck accidents in several ways:

• Loss of control: An overloaded truck is more difficult to control, affecting the ability to make turns, steer properly, or change lanes.

• Rollover risk: When a truck trailer or flatbed is too heavy, it impacts the truck’s center of gravity, making it more difficult to turn or go down steep hills. 

• Tire blowouts or brake failures: Extra-heavy loads put more pressure on the truck’s tire and brake systems, increasing the risk of blowouts and brake failure.

The owners, operators, and cargo loaders associated with the trucking industry are obligated to abide by the federal laws that regulate cargo on these trucks to protect the safety of everyone who shares the road.

What Are the Federal Cargo Safety Laws Related to Truck Accidents?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates strict cargo securement rules. These rules cover the proper use of tie-downs and anchors, naming what materials are to be used based on rigorous testing. 

Tie-downs have to withstand force from all directions and keep cargo properly in place. The FMCSA also regulates the placement and weight of cargo to help drivers avoid rollovers and blowouts that can result in severe accidents. Violating the federal rules pertaining to cargo is dangerous and could result in a substantial liability claim for accident victims.

Who Is Liable for a Cargo-Related Truck Accident?

Loose cargo truck accidents and truck accidents in general can be more complicated due to the potential for third-party liability. The truck driver can be responsible if they fail to ensure that their cargo is properly secured. Trucking companies can be liable for prioritizing profit over safety and pushing speedy deliveries that violate the rules. Cargo handlers and loading crews are responsible for knowing and following the FMCSA rules for cargo. Any of these parties could be liable for a cargo-related truck accident, making them responsible for damages.

Contact a Van Horn, TX Personal Injury Attorney Today

Victims of negligent trucking companies and drivers should not have to face combative insurance providers alone. At James Kennedy, P.L.L.C., we understand the suffering you may be enduring and will fight aggressively to protect your right to compensation. If you need help with medical bills and loss of income in the wake of a truck accident, call 915-544-5200 to speak with a Sierra Blanca, TX truck accident lawyer today and find out what legal options are available to you. Se habla Español.