Why are Oversized Loads on Trucks So Dangerous?
The transportation of oversized loads on trucks in Texas, and throughout the country, is a complicated and highly regulated matter that requires specialized equipment, meticulous planning, and skilled drivers. Even with these factors, accidents involving oversized loads do still happen. When they do, there are serious consequences including traffic disruptions, damage to the infrastructure, severe injuries, and even wrongful death. Below, our San Antonio overloaded truck accident lawyer explains why these vehicles pose such a danger.
What is an Oversized Load?
An oversized load is a load of cargo that exceeds the standard legal weight limits or size for road transportation. These loads are usually heavy, large, and more difficult to maneuver. The dimensions of oversized loads that vary widely, but they typically exceed the following dimensions:
- Width: 8.6 feet
- Height: 14 feet
- Length: 45 to 65 feet
- Weight: 80,000 pounds
Industries such as manufacturing, construction, and energy often require oversized loads. Large industrial equipment, wind turbine blades, modular homes, and heavy machinery are just a few of the most common types of cargo transported in oversized loads.
What Risks Do Oversized Loads Pose?
There are several risks associated with transporting oversized loads, to the drivers who transport the cargo to other users on the road, as well as the infrastructure. These risks are increased by the unique challenges maneuvering these heavy and large loads. Some of the biggest risks associated with oversized loads are as follows:
- Greater likelihood of traffic accidents: Accidents are more likely with oversized loads because they make the vehicle transporting the cargo harder to control. These trucks are extremely large and heavy, which results in some of the most serious injuries and significant property damage during a crash.
- Visibility Issues: An oversized load can make it more difficult for the truck driver to see their surroundings on the road. This can also increase the chance of an accident occurring, particularly when the truck driver is turning or changing lanes.
- Infrastructure issues: An oversized load can also result in significant damage to bridges and roads, which results in expensive repairs. The very size of an oversized load can also lead to collisions with power lines, bridges, and other overhead structures.
- Traffic congestion: Trucks carrying oversized loads are very large and may cause congestion. These vehicles move very slowly and as traffic becomes more congested, the chances of an accident occurring increase. Certain maneuvers, such as wide turns, can also interrupt normal traffic patterns and make accidents more likely.
Our Overloaded Truck Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Help After a Crash
Commercial trucks always pose a hazard on the road but when they are carrying oversized loads, they are particularly dangerous. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio overloaded truck accident lawyer can provide the sound legal advice you need and ensure that you receive a fair settlement. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
txdmv.gov/motor-carriers/oversize-overweight-permits/texas-size-weight-limits
