Missouri Truck Accident Blog

Cargo Loads Point of Concern in MO Revised Statutes

According to Missouri Revised Statutes, “every person operating a motor vehicle on the roads and highways of this state shall drive the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner and at a rate of speed so as not to endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any person and shall exercise the highest degree of care.” While such driving practice is required of all motorists on Missouri roads and highways, it is especially critical for operators of semi-trailer trucks to follow this important statute. However, for a variety of reasons, truck drivers don’t always exhibit the best driving practice, and the results can often leave other motorists injured.

In addition to unsafe driving practice, other factors can lead to motorist injury at the hands of negligent truck drivers. The condition of a big rig, specifically whether or not it is reasonably safe to drive, can play a factor in accident causation. Faulty breaks, inoperable lights, and even worn trailer hitches have all been known to cause accidents.

Another important factor in accident causation pertains to hauled cargo. Missouri Revised Statute 307.010.1 states that “all motor vehicles, and every trailer and semitrailer operating upon the public highways of this state and carrying goods or material or farm products which may reasonably be expected to become dislodged and fall from the vehicle, trailer or semitrailer as a result of wind pressure or air pressure and/or by the movement of the vehicle, trailer or semitrailer shall have a protective cover or be sufficiently secured so that no portion of such goods or material can become dislodged and fall from the vehicle, trailer or semitrailer while being transported or carried.” Just like with all vehicles, large trucks need to properly contain their cargo, which correlates directly with the safety of not only the truck driver, but all other motorists on the road.

If you have been injured in a big rig accident and you believe that improper upkeep or other reckless behavior played a determining role in your injury, you’ll need skilled legal counsel on your side to ensure that negligent behavior is appropriately accounted for. The experienced Missouri truck accident lawyers at Page Cagle have the skills and resources to successfully litigate your truck accident case. Call us today at 866-620-5757 for a free consultation.

Source article:http://www.moga.mo.gov/statutes/C300-399/3040000012.HTM