The maximum potential weight of large commercial trucks is strictly regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and each state has further limits for truck weight. Maximum cargo weight depends on the type of truck transporting the cargo, specifically the size of the truck axles, the number of wheels on the truck, among other factors. No matter what type of tractor-trailer or truck, the maximum weight allowed on United States highways is 80,000 pounds total. Trucks are expected to regularly weigh in at weigh stations to ensure they are following regulations. If a truck driver violates weight regulations and causes an accident, that driver should be held responsible for any resulting injuries. Victims of such truck accidents should contact a truck accident attorney in Coweta County as soon as possible for assistance.
Truck weight is strictly regulated for safety reasons. If the load is too large, the following problems may occur:
- The trailer may begin to sway, sometimes into other lanes
- The truck may have difficulty stopping and may require greater stopping distance than anticipated
- Mechanical problems may occur, such as broken axles or transmission problems
Such challenges caused by too heavy a load can easily cause accidents on the road, however, accident victims may not know how to identify weight violations. A skilled lawyer will know how to utilize investigators and experts to determine whether the cargo load was over the maximum weight and whether that overload contributed to the accident.
Contact a Coweta County Personal Injury Attorney for a Free Consultation
Truck drivers should be aware of the legal towing capacity for their particular model of truck and axle size. If a driver knows the maximum weight and continues to exceed it, they are acting in a negligent manner and should be held responsible for any accidents and injuries they cause as a result. If you have been in a truck accident, an experienced truck accident lawyer will have the resources to help you prove your case. For this reason, you should call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656 today to schedule a free consultation.