Tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles already carry tremendous weight when traveling. When those trucks exceed legal weight limits, the danger multiplies. Overloaded heavy trucks that are overloaded are harder to stop, more prone to tipping, and place extra stress on mechanical systems. These conditions can quickly turn a routine drive into a devastating event for other motorists.
Our knowledgeable truck accident attorneys from Siniard Law, LLC, have experience with overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Huntsville. If you have been injured in this type of collision, we could investigate what happened, determine who was responsible, and help you pursue fair compensation.
State Weight Laws and Their Purpose
The state regulates truck weight under the Code of Alabama § 32-9-20, which outlines maximum gross weights based on the vehicle’s size and axle count. These laws are designed to protect everyone on the road and prevent the kind of mechanical failures and roadway hazards that can occur when a truck is too heavy.
For example, overweight trucks may:
- Require much longer stopping distances
- Have reduced maneuverability in traffic or on curves
- Experience tire blowouts or brake failures more easily
- Lose cargo, creating dangerous obstacles on the road
Even the most experienced drivers may be unable to avoid an overloaded truck crash in Huntsville when facing these challenges.
Determining Responsibility After an Overweight Truck Crash
Responsibility for an accident with an overloaded truck often extends beyond the driver. Parties that may be liable include trucking companies that schedule or approve overweight loads or cargo loaders who fail to weigh or secure freight properly. It also includes maintenance providers if mechanical problems contribute to the wreck.
As the state follows a comparative fault standard, you could be barred from recovering damages if you are found even slightly at fault. This makes thorough investigation and evidence gathering essential—something best handled by a skilled Huntsville lawyer experienced in overloaded/overweight truck collisions.
How Does a Truck Accident Attorney Help You?
After a serious truck accident, trucking companies and their insurers may begin working immediately to limit their liability. Having an advocate on your side could help you pursue fair compensation.
A Huntsville personal injury lawyer with experience in cases for overloaded/overweight truck collisions could:
- Collect weigh station logs, shipping documents, and inspection reports
- Work with accident reconstruction specialists to understand how the crash happened
- Determine whether the Code of Alabama § 32-9-5 or federal trucking regulations were violated
- Negotiate for a fair settlement or present your case in court
Pursuing a claim may help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. The right legal approach may not only help you recover financially but also prevent similar accidents by holding negligent parties accountable.
Speak With a Huntsville Lawyer Today About Overloaded/Overweight Truck Collisions
An overloaded truck can turn a routine drive into a life-altering event in seconds. If you are dealing with the aftermath of such an accident, you deserve clear answers and strong representation, and you do not have to navigate this alone.
Our personal injury lawyers have experience with overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Huntsville and could explain your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation and learn how we might be able to help.
