Overweight and overloaded trucks pose a serious threat to other drivers on the road. The consequences of these collisions can be devastating, often resulting in catastrophic injuries and even fatalities.
At Bordas & Bordas, we have seen firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can have on victims and their families. That is why we are dedicated to helping those who have been injured in overweight and overloaded truck accidents in Pittsburgh pursue the compensation they deserve. Reach out to an experienced semi-truck crash attorney today to discuss your legal options following this type of wreck.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial trucks traveling on interstate highways may not exceed a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 80,000 pounds. This weight includes the weight of the vehicle, cargo, and any passengers. Exceeding this weight limit can result in serious safety hazards and increase the risk of accidents, especially jackknife crashes.
Overweight and overloaded semi-truck accidents in Pittsburgh almost always occur due to the negligence of one or more parties. There are several steps that truck drivers and companies can take to ensure that their vehicle is within the acceptable weight limit and comply with federal regulations, such as:
When truck drivers and companies fail to ensure their vehicles are within the acceptable weight limit, they put others on the road at significant risk.
An accident with an overweight or overloaded truck can result in serious and life-changing injuries. Some of the injuries that you may sustain as a result of such a collision include:
These injuries can have long-lasting and severe consequences, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments. When you or a loved one are involved in a wreck with an overweight or overloaded truck, you should retain a skilled Pittsburgh attorney to pursue comprehensive compensation for your damages.
In Pittsburgh, liability for accidents that occur due to overweight or overloaded trucks can be attributed to different parties, depending on the circumstances of the crash. Some of the parties that may be held liable for such accidents include:
The driver of an overweight or overloaded truck might be liable if they were aware that the vehicle was overweight or overloaded and still chose to operate it or if they were driving negligently or recklessly, causing the wreck.
The trucking company that owns or operates the truck may also be liable if they were aware that the truck was overweight or overloaded and still allowed it to be driven or if they were negligent in their hiring or training of the driver.
If the truck was improperly loaded or overloaded by a loading company, they might also be liable for any resulting crashes.
Government agencies responsible for regulating and enforcing weight limits and road safety may also be liable if they fail to enforce weight limits or maintain safe road conditions.
Determining liability in an overweight or overloaded 18-wheeler crash can be challenging, which is why it is crucial to consult with a lawyer in Pittsburgh who has experience handling these types of cases. A proactive attorney from our firm can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and help identify the parties responsible for pursuing fair financial recovery for your losses.
When you or a loved one are involved in a collision with an overweight or overloaded commercial vehicle, you should seek legal assistance from a trusted law firm.
At Bordas & Bordas, we understand the complexities of cases involving overweight and overloaded truck accidents in Pittsburgh, and we are committed to helping you navigate the legal process and recover the payments you deserve. Our diligent team of attorneys will fight tirelessly to hold the at-fault parties accountable and protect your rights. Start the process today by scheduling a free consultation with one of the capable legal professionals at our firm.
