Can a Truck’s Cargo Cause Accidents?

 Posted on May 07, 2025 in Truck accidents

US Route 287 in Alvord, TX was the scene of a highly unusual truck rollover accident. The semi was carrying $800,000 of brand-new dimes, which spilled all over the roadway and into the grass on the sides of the road. A miles-long traffic delay lasted for nearly 14 hours while crews used shovels, buckets, and sewage vacuum trucks to pick up the dimes. The cause of the accident is unclear.

While this crash only produced minor injuries, truck accidents caused by cargo issues often result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. If a semi accident injured you, our skilled Comal County, TX personal injury attorney can take appropriate action on your behalf.

What Kinds of Cargo Issues Can Lead to Semi-Truck Wrecks?

A semi’s trailer can be a box container, flatbed trailer, step deck, or another type of configuration. Liquids are also transported in tanker trucks. These trailers are designed to carry various kinds of extremely heavy cargo. The legal weight limit for most tractor-trailers is 80,000 pounds. Although the truck and empty trailer contribute to the overall weight, the freight load accounts for a major portion.

Safe transport requires that the cargo be secured to keep it from shifting during transit. The weight should also be distributed properly to reduce the likelihood of a rollover or tire blowout. Heavy chains are typically used on open trailers to secure the load. Tie-down ratcheting straps are also used for some cargo.

Various problems with cargo can cause the driver to lose control of the truck and cause a wreck. Shifting cargo can throw excessive weight to one side, leading to a rollover. This type of crash is often deadly because the truck may land on nearby cars.

Overweight loads can cause extreme strain for the truck’s engine, brakes, and tires. The heavier the truck, the more challenging it is to drive.

In some cases, such as the incident mentioned above, part or all of the cargo can fall or be thrown from the truck. The straps or chains used to secure loads may fail, or the latch on a box trailer door may not have been fastened correctly. The loose cargo may hit other vehicles or become roadway obstacles that cause crashes. This can happen even if the truck itself is not involved in the accident.

Fuel and liquid chemicals can leak from a truck or spill due to a collision. This increases the chance of fire, and breathing toxic fumes can also cause injuries.

Who Is Responsible for Paying My Damages If Cargo Causes a Truck Crash?

Large trucks are commercial vehicles, and there are several parties who could share liability for your damages, including:

• The driver
• The cargo loaders
• The trucking company
• The trailer’s owner
• Parts manufacturers
• Truck maintenance personnel or companies

We will conduct a thorough investigation into your truck accident. When we learn why it happened, we know who is responsible for paying your damages. Depending on case-specific factors, you could receive reimbursement for various accident-related expenses, along with compensation for intangible losses, such as pain and suffering. We will work hard to help you collect maximum damages.

Call Our Dedicated New Braunfels, TX Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident claims are complex, and you need the assistance of our competent Comal County, TX personal injury attorney if you hope to get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. To schedule your complimentary consultation, contact The Bettersworth Law Firm at 830-606-0404 or online today.