Properly loaded cargo can help to minimize the risk of a commercial truck accident.
While truckers are required to keep their cargo loaded securely while traveling, improperly loaded hauls can lead to cargo spills, which can lead to serious auto accidents and even affect the surrounding environment.
McAllen logistics services provider, Lean Cargo Logistics, is available for the transportation of goods, and we ensure that safety regulations are followed at all times. Read on to learn more about truckers’ requirements and what can happen when cargo is not properly loaded.
Truck Loading Requirements
Truck drivers and trucking companies are required to follow strict guidelines when it comes to loading cargo. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a handbook for truckers on what they should do to maintain safety. This guide includes information regarding the minimum amount of tie-downs needed, what needs to be tied down, and what to check before transport.
While there are many different requirements, failing to meet them can result in serious issues.
Improper Loading and How It Can Cause An Accident
Improperly loaded cargo comes in many forms and accidents can easily happen when this is the case. Improper loading may consist of:
- Unbalanced Cargo – This is when the cargo’s weight is unevenly distributed over the truck’s loading area. If the cargo shifts during transit, it will affect the handling of the truck.
- Overloaded Cargo – Overloading is when a truck is carrying cargo that weighs over the max weight limits of the vehicle. This can cause issues with the truck’s braking and handling.
- Unsecured Cargo – When cargo is not secured properly, it can cause the cargo to move around or fall off the truck into the road. This can cause accidents by cargo landing in the path of other vehicles. This can also lead to an imbalance in the truck's cargo, which can create further safety issues.
Common Cargo-Related Truck Accidents
Unbalanced, overloaded, or unsecured cargo can lead to different types of accidents, including:
- Rollovers
Rollovers can happen due to unbalanced weight affecting the maneuverability of the truck. Accidents can happen by trucks falling onto other vehicles or blocking the road.
- Blowouts
Tire blowouts can occur when cargo is overweight as there is added pressure on the tires. A blowout can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
- Cargo Spills
Cargo spills occur when items are not fastened down correctly; these types of incidents can be especially dangerous for others on the road.
Cargo Spills: Their Role in Truck Accidents
Cargo spills can play a large role in truck accidents. Cargo can include all sorts of materials like liquids, grocery store goods, or heavy equipment. Cargo spills can cause several critical issues, including:
- Truckers losing control of their vehicle
- Cargo falling on or around other vehicles
- Hazardous materials damaging our environment
How Can Lean Cargo Logistics Help You?
Transporting goods can be stressful sometimes, and common loading errors may lead to serious accidents. A good logistics company can handle all of this for you. Let the experienced team of Lean Cargo Logistics take care of your transportation needs today.
