Given the dangerous nature of overloaded trucks, it’s essential that truck drivers and companies take the necessary precautions to avoid overloading their vehicles.
We’ve likely all seen them. Trucks barreling down the highway, overloaded with cargo. While many may view these overloaded trucks as a normal part of daily life, few stop to think about the dangers they pose. Here are five dangers of overloaded trucks that everyone should be aware of.
They’re More Likely to Experience Brake, Tire Failure
One of the dangers of overloaded trucks is the increased risk of brake failure. When a truck is carrying too much weight, the brakes have to work harder to slow down the vehicle. This puts extra stress on the braking system, which can eventually lead to component failure. In addition, overloaded trucks are more difficult to stop in an emergency situation. If a driver needs to make a sudden stop, the extra weight can cause the truck to skid or jackknife.
The extra weight also makes it more difficult for the tires to grip the road, which can cause them to burst or detach from the truck entirely.
They’re More Likely to Roll Over
Ever wondered why trucks don’t roll over in normal circumstances despite their large size and heavy loads? The answer has to do with weight distribution. When a truck is fully loaded, the weight is generally evenly distributed across the axle. This gives the truck a low center of gravity, which makes it more stable. However, if a truck is overloaded or carrying an unbalanced load, this can throw off its center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over. When a truck tips over, it can cause serious damage to property and potentially injure or kill people nearby.
They’re More Likely to Lose Their Load
If the driver overloads their truck, there is a high chance that they used substandard methods and materials to secure the cargo. This is dangerous because it increases the likelihood of the load shifting or falling off the truck, which can pose a serious hazard to other motorists.
They’re a Fire Hazard
When a truck is overloaded, it’s at risk of catching fire. The engine and tires are under immense strain, which can cause them to overheat and ignite. In addition, the extra weight makes it difficult for the driver to control the vehicle, increasing the chances of an accident. And if an accident does occur, the likelihood of a fire breaking out is much higher.
They Can Damage the Road
The extra weight of overloaded trucks can cause the pavement to crack and break, leading to potholes and other hazards for other drivers.
Given the dangerous nature of overloaded trucks, it’s essential that truck drivers and companies take the necessary precautions to avoid overloading their vehicles. Drivers should always check their load before setting out on a trip and make sure it’s properly secured. And companies should ensure their trucks are not overloaded beyond the maximum weight limit.
St. Louis Auto Accident Lawyers
Were you injured in an accident caused by an overloaded truck? The experienced St. Louis auto accident attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm can help ensure your legal rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.