Large semi-trucks are dangerous enough on the road already, but oversized trucks carrying loads that take up multiple lanes can pose even more hazards to other drivers. Although these trucks are often accompanied by a convoy of vehicles designed to make other drivers aware of the oversized load and prevent them from getting too close, they can still pose serious risks for motorists no matter how many precautions are taken.

The Shelbyville truck accident lawyers at Matt Hardin Law know that oversized trucks or trucks hauling oversized loads are often much too large for traditional roadways—and that puts drivers in danger. If you were injured in an accident involving an oversized truck, we may be able to help you get compensation for your accident-related expenses. To find out how we can help you, just dial fill out a free online form today.

How Can Oversized Trucks Cause Accidents?

Some of the most common ways that oversized trucks and trucks carrying oversized loads cause accidents include:

• Forcing other vehicles off the road
  Even though many oversized trucks have vehicles in front and behind to keep other drivers away on highways and interstates, some oversized trucks have no such convoy. In those cases, the truck drivers may be unable to see other drivers on either side of their vehicle or cargo. Because oversized trucks may take up more than one lane, any sudden movement or lane change by the truck driver can force other motorists off the road, potentially causing a serious accident and serious injuries.
• Flipping over onto other vehicles
  The center of gravity on oversized trucks is often highly imbalanced, resulting in a vehicle that’s extremely top-heavy and prone to tipping over. Drivers who don’t follow all of the necessary precautions required to drive oversized trucks may take a turn at too high of a speed and causing their vehicle to flip over, injuring not only themselves but also any motorists nearby. People near the accident scene may also suffer injuries if the truck is carrying explosive, corrosive, or toxic cargo, such as industrial chemicals or gasoline.
• Cargo coming loose while the truck is in motion
  One of the biggest priorities for drivers responsible for hauling oversized cargo is to make sure it’s completely secured and attached to the vehicle. Loose cargo can cause debris to fly off the truck at high speeds and either strike other vehicles or cause drivers to swerve to avoid it—which can cause serious accidents. Large pieces of cargo falling off the truck can also result in serious accidents and highway backups that can last for hours.

Trucking companies and truck drivers in charge of hauling oversized cargo on oversized trucks have a lot of responsibility to keep themselves and other drivers on the road safe at all times. That’s why it’s so important that they follow all safety precautions.

If the trucking company or truck driver fail to exercise caution, they may be considered negligent and could be liable to pay for the medical bills, lost wages, and even vehicle repair costs of any innocent victims involved in the accident.