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TRUCK WEIGHT DOES AFFECT SAFETY

On Behalf of | Feb 10, 2021 | Motor Vehicle Accidents, Truck Accidents

states that truck drivers must know the total weight their truck when they get onto the road. The truck driver has the responsibility of ensuring that the weight does not exceed the maximum allowed by law in the state or states that the truck will be traveling.

The reason the weight of the truck is important is because it can affect the safety of drivers on the roads and the truck in a variety of ways. Statistics show that overloaded or overweight trucks continue to be a major cause of traffic fatalities throughout the United States.

 

HOW DOES IT AFFECT SAFETY?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which compiles statistics related to vehicles and safety, overloaded trucks continue to be a leading reason for traffic accidents. The reason for this is that an overloaded truck is harder to handle. It takes longer to stop a heavier truck, and they also handle differently on icy or wet roads because there is less traction.

Finally, since the truck is heavier than it should be, there is an increase in the severity of accidents with a greater chance of severe or even fatal injuries from these types of accidents.

 

HOW DOES IT AFFECT OPERATION?

If a driver exceeds the maximum weight allowed, it can also affect how the truck runs. An overloaded truck may not move properly, or it could suffer damage that makes it unsafe to operate on roadways.  It is common for overloaded trucks to have issues with brakes and suspension which does directly impact the overall operation of the truck safety.

 

HOW DOES IT AFFECT ROADWAYS?

Overloaded, heavy trucks can also cause more wear and tear on the highways. They can damage roads making them unsafe which leads to accidents that do not even involve the trucks who caused the damage.

 

Regulations are in place to prevent accidents, but they are often overlooked. If you or a family member has been involved in an accident involving a tractor trailer, you may need to talk to a truck accident lawyer. Call the law offices Hardee, Massey & Blodgett at 252-378-2525 to get a free consultation.