With manufacturing facilities and agricultural centers throughout the state, Indiana is a hub for the trucking industry. Thousands of tractor-trailer trucks transport goods using interstate highways and state roadways every day. If you sustained injuries due to a collision with an overloaded commercial truck, you might have grounds for a claim.
According to the United States Census Bureau, more than 3.5 million people in the U.S. work as truck drivers. While many commercial drivers stay local, there are more than 700,000 classified as long-haul truckers. Long hours on the road can cause wear and tear on components and systems of the truck. If the load exceeds the maximum weight limit, it creates dangerous conditions.
Higher Risk of Rollover
Potholes, road construction, curves and turns can cause loads to shift, and top-heavy cargo can move in high winds. Trailers are already prone to tipping due to their height. If the load shifts or moves in any way, the trailer may roll onto its side. Rapid speed changes generate inertia and create a tremendous force. This makes it difficult for the driver to control and could cause catastrophic injuries if it collides with your vehicle.
Reduced Mechanical Performance
When moving at highway speeds, a loaded semi-truck may need more than 500 feet to stop. This distance might increase when the vehicle is too heavy. Difficulty steering, brake failure and tire blowouts also become more likely. The truck and its trailer may jackknife and slide across lanes into oncoming traffic when these unexpected failures occur.
If you sustained injuries in a truck collision, you might require multiple surgeries and years of medical treatment. A settlement can help you cover costs and compensate you for lost wages, medical devices and other necessities.
