It is extremely important for trailers to be properly loaded in order to avoid an accident. Every year, hundreds of truck accidents result when cargo is not properly loaded or is overloaded. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the proper way to secure loads, but unfortunately, many drivers and truck companies ignore these rules in an effort to move more cargo faster.
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause balance issues within the trailer, which can cause the trailer to swerve dangerously while the truck is in motion. Imbalance in the trailer can also cause braking issues when the truck is traveling uphill or downhill. Imbalanced trailers are more likely to tip over or jackknife, causing serious injury or death to nearby drivers.
An overloaded truck can be just as deadly. Too much weight can also cause braking issues, as the truck will require a longer distance to slow down with a heavier load. Overloaded trailers can also place significant strain on axels and tires, which may break beneath the trailer’s weight. Tire blowouts are often caused by trailers that are carrying too much weight.
Due to their massive weight and size (up to 80,000 pounds), trucks can cause devastating accidents that most often end up seriously harming or killing other drivers. Properly secured cargo is one of the most important aspects of truck safety and is an essential part of preventing accidents.
Read more: Truck Maintenance Failure