It is not uncommon to see semitrailers on roads all around Louisiana. While this is a good thing for a number of reasons, these massive trucks are also very dangerous around which to drive. Truck accidents happen all too often, and sometimes the reasons that they happen are quite surprising.
When semitrailers are loaded, cargo must be attached just so and must not exceed a certain weight limit. Every truck is different, so attachment points vary. The amounts that they can carry do as well. Why do these things matter?
Cargo securement matters for various reasons. First, it helps guarantee that goods will make it to their destination free of damage. Second, it keeps a truck balanced. Finally, when it comes to open trailers, it keeps products from falling into the roadway.
The trucking industry is highly regulated. This is for safety reasons. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set certain rules that trucking companies and their employees must abide by when it comes to cargo securement. The current rules state:
- Approved ties downs must be used
- These ties can only be attached to approved anchor points
- Cargo weight will determine how many ties must be used
- Cargo weight must not exceed a truck’s limit
Truck accidents related to cargo securement issues actually happen more often than anyone would like to think. Ever see a truck tipped or see cargo falling off a trailer? These things tend to happen because securement rules were not followed. Those in Louisiana who have been injured or lost loved ones in truck accidents related to cargo securement problems may seek damages for their losses. This can be done by filing the appropriate claims in civil court against all those deemed responsible.
Source: fmcsa.dot.gov, “Driver’s Handbook on Cargo Securement – Chapter 2: General Cargo Securement Requirements”, Accessed on Sept. 18, 2017