When Falling Cargo Causes Injuries

 Posted on May 29, 2024 in Personal Injury

Trucks can present countless dangers on the road. Whether the driver is negligent and crashes into someone, the engine parts are faulty and do not respond quickly enough to the brakes, or something the truck is transporting falls off the truck, the potential damage from an accident can be staggering. When a regular driver is minding his own business and suddenly a huge object crashes into his windshield, it can be extremely damaging and even fatal. Unfortunately, that is what happens when cargo is not properly secured onto a truck, and it is a major problem on the roads. If you were injured as a result of falling cargo from a truck, speak with a skilled Naperville, IL truck accident attorney who can review your case and advise you on how to seek maximum compensation.

What Makes Cargo Fall From a Truck?

Trucks carry cargo that is supposed to be secured with restraints like chains or straps so that it all stays in place while on the road. If something is not properly secured, it can shift inside the truck, causing it to swerve and possibly hit a nearby car. It could also fall out of the truck, creating an obstacle on the road for other vehicles.

Questions of Liability When Cargo Falls From a Truck

That is why the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a set of rules that need to be followed when securing cargo onto a truck. If cargo does fall off a truck, several people might be considered responsible, including:

• Cargo company: Third-party companies are often hired to load cargo onto a truck and secure it properly. If they were negligent in their duties, they might share liability following an accident caused by falling cargo.
• Trucking company: The driver’s employer might be liable for failing to provide the driver with proper equipment, training, or supervision to ensure that cargo is safely secured.
• Truck driver: If it was the driver’s job to ensure that all cargo was secure before driving but failed to conduct required inspections, they could be held personally liable.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County, IL Truck Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in an accident that happened when unsecured cargo fell off a truck, contact a Lombard, IL personal injury attorney to find out how to get maximum compensation. At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we fight hard for our clients so you can focus your energy on recovering from your injuries. Call us at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation.