Oversized Truck Accidents in Alabama

Semi trucks already pose a significant danger to other motorists, but this risk increases when oversized trucks are involved. These much larger loads encroach upon other lanes and make it more likely for the vehicle to destabilize, increasing the likelihood of severe crashes and devastating consequences.

If you are involved in a collision with an oversized vehicle, you might not know where to turn for help or what to do next. Siniard Law, LLC can help. Our team of attorneys understands the unique legal principles involved in these types of collisions and can guide you through the process of pursuing compensation for your damages. Call us today to get started with a free case review.

Statistics on Oversized Truck Accidents

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 5,904 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2021. 117,000 injury crashes occurred in the same year. The FMCSA’s Large Truck Causation Study identified the common reasons for crashes and found that driver error was the critical event that led to truck crashes in 87% of cases. 10% of crashes were due to the vehicle. The other 3% was attributed to the environment.

The Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety reports that 77% of survey respondents oppose oversized double trailer trucks on roadways in the United States and that 79% of respondents are very or somewhat convinced that heavier and longer trucks lead to more braking problems and longer stopping distances, which causes an increase in the number of crashes involving trucks.

Legal Framework for Oversized Trucks in Alabama

The Alabama Department of Transportation issues permits for oversized loads when the weight, width, length, or height exceed the maximum limit specified by law when the trucking company can show good cause and that it’s not possible to dismantle or rearrange the load in such a way to fit within the constraints imposed by law. Typical loads cannot exceed any of the following:

Weight: No more than 20,000 pounds carried on any one axle, including the allowable load tolerance or with a tandem axle weight more than 34,000 pounds, including the allowable load tolerance
Width: 8’6”
Length: 40 feet
Height: 13’6”

The permit can be for a single use or annual use. If the gross weight is over 100,000 pounds or the truck is over dimensional, the transporter must obtain a “Routing Authorization permit.” The transporting vehicle must have a sign warning other motorists of this, use flags, and use warning lights. It must also be accompanied by an escort vehicle with warning signs and lights. Drivers of escort vehicles are prohibited from using a cell phone or other portable electronic device other than for emergencies or to support the movement of the oversize combination vehicle. Oversized load vehicles can only complete transportation during daylight hours and are excluded from moving on certain holidays.

Truck drivers are responsible for following state and federal trucking regulations while operating the truck. Truck manufacturers must provide an accurate Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) on the truck’s license plate. This rating is based on rating various factors, including the suspension, number of axles, powertrain, braking ability, and frame. Trucks cannot carry more than the allowable GVWR or 80,000 pounds except for specific situations. Trucks must stop at weigh stations to ensure they abide by these rules.

Risks Associated with Oversized Truck Accidents

Oversized trucks expose other motorists to risks that they are typically shielded from. These trucks may pose additional risks, such as:

Higher center of gravity: Oversized trucks have a higher center of gravity, which can increase the possibility of rollover accidents.
Steering problems: Controlling a vehicle with a larger load is more challenging, especially when trying to steer. This can lead to accidents caused by a loss of control.
Difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle: When an oversized truck travels downhill, the velocity can increase, which can make it difficult to control. Oversized loads can also be challenging to navigate uphill.
Brake problems: The downhill velocity can also impose excess strain on the brakes and possibly cause brake failure.
Tire blowouts: The excess weight of oversized loads can also put more strain on tires, leading to dangerous tire blowout accidents.
Shifting load: Overweight loads are less likely to be secure. The items being transported can become dislodged and fall off during transit. The load could also shift, causing imbalance and overloading on one axle, leading to accidents.
Increased blind spots: Truck drivers may have difficulty seeing around the large blind spots created by the oversized load.
Longer stopping distances: Oversized loads make the truck take longer to stop. A distracted driver may not notice a hazard until it is too late to avoid a collision.

Another danger of oversized trucks is the increased risk of driver fatigue. Drivers may be stuck with the load until they finish the delivery. They may also be asked to rush the delivery, which can lead to driver fatigue. Tired drivers are more likely to make errors in judgment, fall asleep behind the wheel, or take risks. Unfortunately, fatigue-related accidents are all too common.

Common Causes of Wide Load Truck Accidents in Alabama

Like any other truck crash, various causes can contribute to accidents involving wide-load vehicles.

Driver inexperience: Just because a driver has a commercial driver’s license, that does not mean that they have been properly trained to safely transport a wider load. Driver inexperience can ultimately lead to a severe crash that could have been avoided had the trucking company hired a qualified driver.
Driver error: Because driving oversized is more difficult, driver errors can result in accidents caused by turning issues, speeding, failing to maintain their lane, or other operational errors.
Distractions: Truck drivers might be distracted by dispatch communications, cell phones, GPS directions, or other sources.
Driver fatigue: Drivers of oversized loads may be tired, which can lead to errors and accidents.
Equipment failure: Brakes or suspension systems may fail due to the excess weight. Tires can also blow, leading to dangerous accidents. Sometimes, these accidents are due to poor maintenance.
Environmental factors: Bad weather or road conditions can also lead to these accidents.

If you were injured in an accident involving an oversized load, contact an experienced attorney for help. We can investigate the factors that contributed to the accident and gather evidence to prove liability.

Safety Tips for Motorists in Alabama to Prevent Oversized Truck Accidents

The best way to avoid the fallout of an oversized load accident is not to be in one in the first place. Some ways to avoid oversized truck accidents include:

Always maintain a safe distance, even further away from a truck than you would normally travel.
Avoid distractions and stay alert.
Ensure clear visibility and be cautious when overtaking an oversized load.
Recognize and understand the limitations of oversized trucks, including increased stopping distances.

Compensation for Victims of Wide Load Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and significant economic losses, not to mention unbearable pain. Truck accident victims may be able to recover compensation for the following damages:

Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages
Loss of future earning capacity
Vehicle repairs or replacement
Replacement services
Pain and suffering
Mental anguish and emotional distress
Disfigurement and scarring
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of companionship

Recovering compensation after a truck accident involving an oversized vehicle hinges on your ability to show how the accident happened and who was responsible for it. Various parties could be responsible for the accident, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loading company, or the mechanic.

Trucking companies are required to maintain larger liability insurance policies. However, insurance companies are in the business of making money. To protect their profit margin, insurance companies will try to shift the blame to other parties. A thorough investigation and evidence that can help support your claim can go a long way toward establishing your truck accident case.

To have the best chance at recovering fair compensation following an oversized load accident, report the accident to authorities, request a copy of the accident report, and document the scene before evidence is lost or destroyed.

Seek Legal Advice If You’re Involved in an Accident with an Oversized Truck

If you were injured in an accident with an oversized vehicle, it’s crucial that you seek legal representation from a qualified truck accident lawyer. At Siniard Law, LLC, we have an in-depth understanding of Alabama’s truck accident laws and have recovered over $200 million for our clients. We can help you navigate the complexities of liability and insurance claims. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Oversized Truck Accidents in Alabama: Dangers, Safety, Compensation