Missouri Truck Accident Blog

Overloading Trucks is a Serious Problem

Overloading trucks or failing to distribute a load properly in tractor-trailers can cause serious truck accidents and subsequent injuries or fatalities. There are strict federal rules and regulations that apply to commercial trucking companies for limiting the total weight trucks are allowed to carry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which regulates commercial trucking companies, limits the total weight for commercial vehicles to 20,000 pounds per axle, up to a limit of 80,000 pounds total.

It is the responsibility of the driver and the trucking company to ensure that the weight limit is not exceeded and that the weight is evenly distributed throughout the vehicle. Load-shifting often results in tractor-trailer rigs jackknifing. Overloading a big rig can also lead to other problems. An overloaded truck increases the risk of mechanical malfunction such as brake failure and tire blowouts. Still, some trucking firms and drivers will overload their trucks in order to increase their delivery capacity and maximize their profits. Overloaded big rigs nationwide have caused rear-end accidents mostly because of brake failure and have resulted in tragic fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Missouri truck accident, you may want to consider obtaining legal counsel and representation. The reputed St. Louis big rig accident lawyers at Page Cagle will remain at your side and make sure that your legal rights are protected. We understand how important it is for you to receive just compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost earnings. It is critical that you contact a knowledgeable attorney soon after your accident. Call Page Cagle at 1-866-620-5757 today for a free consultation and evaluation of your St. Louis truck accident claim.