Types of Cargo Carried by Large Trucks

Injured in a Collision Caused by Overloaded Cargo?

18-wheelers and other large commercial trucks are one of the primary means of transporting heavy cargo. They move millions of tons of hazardous materials, chemicals, and heavy equipment across U.S. highways every day. These materials include fuels to power our cars, machinery to run factories, and hazardous chemicals of all types and uses.

Because of the sheer weight of the cargo and its impact on the truck's maneuverability, there are several key safety regulations and protocols that must be followed in order to ensure the vehicles are loaded properly. These regulations must be followed not only by the driver, but by the workers on the loading dock who are responsible for loading the cargo into the truck.

While most trucking companies strive to transport their valuable products safely, drivers can often run into issues of human error, causing serious accidents that are only aggravated by the dangerous type or amount of cargo they are carrying. When accidents are caused by overloaded or poorly loaded cargo, companies, drivers, or other parties may be held responsible.

Were you involved in an accident due to cargo issue? Call Arnold & Itkin today.

Hazardous Materials

The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that 7% of all trucks carry hazardous materials. Hazardous materials should be properly secured in the truck. The motor carrier is responsible for bracing such materials securely for shipment.

Hazardous materials include the following:

• Explosives
• Flammable gases and liquids
• Combustible solids
• Oxidizers
• Radioactive materials
• Corrosives

Large Equipment

Large machinery and equipment are often transported on a flatbed truck. It is absolutely crucial that such large cargo is properly secured. If the equipment shifts or comes untied, it can cause a tractor-trailer to turn over and endanger other motorists.

Up to 1,000 fatalities occur each year involving flatbed trucks.

Vehicle Transport

Multi-car trailers are open, double deck trailers than can haul as many as 12 vehicles at once. These large trucks have limited maneuverability and can be involved in accidents if vehicles around them make unexpected turns or stop suddenly. Their cargo is extremely heavy and bulky, making it difficult for them to brake, turn, or adjust in order to avoid collision.

Flammable Liquids & Gases

Cargo tank trucks ("tanker trucks") transport flammable liquids and compressed gases. Due to the danger involved, there are strict regulations concerning the transport of hazardous materials, with some drivers forbidden from leaving cargo unattended.

Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Arnold & Itkin is prepared to stand up to trucking companies to secure a fair settlement that recognizes the severity of your injuries and the disruption to your family. We have extensive experience handling commercial motor vehicle accidents, and we’ve won billions in verdicts and settlements in the last 5 years. Our truck accident attorneys are committed to helping people who have been seriously injured due to cargo issues, drowsy driving, and any other acts of negligence.