Why are Improperly Loaded Tow Trucks So Dangerous?
Seeing a tow truck pulling a vehicle that has broken down, or towing a vehicle on a flatbed, is a very common sight. Most people think nothing of it when they see these vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, when tow trucks are not loaded properly, the vehicle they are towing can become dislodged, causing them to crash onto the road, and into any nearby vehicles. In most cases, dislodged vehicles on tow trucks are a clear sign of negligence. Below, our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer explains the danger of improperly loaded tow trucks.
How Should Tow Trucks Be Loaded?
Tow truck drivers receive extensive training to make sure they are able to properly load vehicles of all sizes and weights. As a tow truck driver approaches the vehicle, they evaluate the situation and determine the best way to move the vehicle from the road and onto the truck or up on a rig. Some of the steps involved in loading tow trucks are as follows:
- The vehicle should be inspected closely to determine if there is any damage to it that could pose a safety hazard.
- The tow truck driver should inspect all equipment including all blocks, straps, or rigs that may be used to hold the vehicle, to ensure they are in good working condition.
- The chains and ramps should be inspected to make sure they are in good condition and properly fixed to keep the vehicle study during the process.
- The weight of the vehicle to be towed should be gauged to ensure it does not exceed the maximum weight of the flatbed or hitch.
- The tow truck driver should ensure the weight is properly distributed and that the load is balanced.
When the above steps are not taken, an accident can occur if the towed vehicle becomes loose and crashes into another vehicle. This often happens at very high speeds, making the impact of the crash more forceful and causing more severe injuries.
Determining Liability for an Improperly Loaded Tow Truck
Determining who is liable for an improperly loaded tow truck is not easy. There are multiple potentially liable parties in these cases and they are as follows:
- The tow truck drivers: Tow truck drivers are usually the ones who load a broken vehicle onto their truck. If they fail to do so properly, they can be held liable if the vehicle dislodges.
- Tow truck companies: Tow truck companies are liable if the tow truck is not properly maintained, if they did not provide proper training to the driver, or otherwise placed people at risk.
- Tow truck manufacturers: Manufacturers have a strict legal duty to ensure their products are safe, including tow truck manufacturers. When these vehicles are defective, the manufacturer can be held liable.
Our Company Vehicle Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Help After a Crash
If you have been hurt by a tow truck, or a vehicle it was carrying, you need legal help. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio company vehicle accident lawyer can provide it and help you obtain the maximum settlement you rightfully deserve. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/negligence
