An empty truck is dangerous in and of itself. A truck carrying hazardous materials only increases the risk of serious injury in an accident. Hazardous materials could include flammable liquids, radioactive materials, explosives, dangerous gases, and poisonous chemicals. In certain cases, the shipper of hazardous materials can be held liable for resulting accident injuries, especially if the shipper failed to inform the driver or the trucking company of the hazardous nature of the shipped goods.