Fresno Overloaded & Unsecured Cargo Accident Attorneys

Injured in a Cargo-Related Truck Accident in Fresno, CA?

Highway accidents involving commercial trucking vehicles, such as semis and big rigs, can cause a variety of severe injuries – or even fatal injuries – regardless of whether the collisions occurred on a freeway in the middle of nowhere or on a busy street in the middle of town. Unsecured and/or overloaded cargo are some of the primary causes of trucking accidents on California roads. Accidents caused by shifted or unsecured heavy loads, for instance, can make a truck and its trailer more challenging to handle; sometimes, they reduce the operator's ability to control the vehicle, potentially causing him to veer off the path and collide with other drivers on the road.

At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we understand the devastating impact that overloaded and unsecured cargo accidents can have on victims and their families. Located in Fresno, CA, our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping those affected by cargo-related truck accidents secure the compensation they deserve.

Call (559) 900-1280 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Common Types of Cargo Trucks Carry

Cargo trucks transport a wide variety of goods across the country, and the type of cargo they carry can significantly influence the severity of an accident. Common types of cargo include:

• Consumer Goods: Electronics, clothing, and household items are frequently transported in cargo trucks.
• Hazardous Materials: Chemicals, flammable liquids, and toxic substances require special handling and pose significant risks if not properly secured.
• Heavy Machinery: Construction equipment and industrial machines can cause severe damage if they become unsecured.
• Perishable Goods: Food products that require refrigeration must be transported carefully to prevent spoilage.
• Raw Materials: Lumber, steel, and other raw materials are often carried in bulk and need to be securely fastened.

Understanding the type of cargo involved in a truck accident is crucial for determining liability and the potential risks associated with the accident.

Common Causes of Cargo-Related Truck Accidents

Several factors can contribute to cargo-related truck accidents, including:

• Overloading: Exceeding the truck's weight limit can cause mechanical failure, reduce braking efficiency, and increase the likelihood of rollovers.
• Improper Loading: Unevenly distributed cargo can shift during transit, leading to loss of control.
• Inadequate Securing: Cargo that is not properly secured can fall onto the road, creating hazards for other vehicles.
• Driver Error: Inexperienced or fatigued drivers may struggle to manage vehicles with improperly loaded cargo.
• Mechanical Failures: Worn or faulty equipment, such as brakes or tires, can fail under the strain of heavy cargo.

Each of these factors can lead to serious accidents, causing significant injuries or even fatalities.

Who is Liable for a Cargo-Related Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a cargo-related truck accident can be complex, involving multiple parties. Potentially liable parties include:

• Truck Driver: If the driver failed to inspect the cargo or drove recklessly, they might be held responsible.
• Trucking Company: Companies are often responsible for ensuring their vehicles are properly loaded and maintained.
• Cargo Loaders: Third-party companies hired to load cargo may be liable if they failed to secure the load properly.
• Manufacturers: If a mechanical failure due to a defective part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer might be held accountable.

Our team at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties and ensure they are held accountable.

Contact us today at (559) 900-1280 to speak with our team.