Overloaded cargo is a leading cause of truck accidents. By adding too much weight to what a semitruck can safely support, the vehicle's center of gravity is knocked out of balance, and this can make a driver more easily lose control and collide with other vehicles. Here area few ways overloaded semitrucks cause serious damage on America's roadways.

What Are the Risks of an Overloaded Semitruck?

1. Tire Failure

A semi overloaded with cargo places more stress, wear, and tear on its tires. The tires deteriorate faster and are more likely to lose tread, which is essential for traction and for safe navigation, especially in wet conditions. With the excessive burden on the tires, there is a greater chance of a blowout. When tires fail, a semi driver has a harder time controlling the vehicle and may cause a truck accident with any attempts to pull to the side of the road.

2. Road Damage

Overloaded semis can indirectly cause accidents as well. All trucks have a weight limit, and exceeding that limit can destroy a road, leaving potholes, cracks, and collapsed pavement behind. Anyone traveling on the road might drive through these deteriorating conditions and either lose control or swerve to avoid them, leading to an accident.

3. Mechanical Failure

Too much weight can have a dangerous impact on many of a semitruck's major mechanical systems. For instance, just as overloaded cargo puts extreme stress on tires, it exerts the same burden on a truck's suspension system, including the shocks, struts, and springs. This can lead to significant bounces and bumps, which aren't just uncomfortable for the driver, but can also make it easier to lose control of the truck, especially at high speeds. An overload can also break an axle, which means certain wheels may not get engine power. As a result, the semi will often pull to one side, colliding with any vehicles in its path.

If you've been involved in a truck accident, you may well understand the dangers that overloaded semis pose. But you don't need to navigate a truck accident by yourself. The attorneys at Carey & Hamner, P.C., are here to help. Serving the Dothan, Enterprise, and Ozark, AL, areas, they offer legal representation in auto accident, work and personal injury, and Social Security disability claims. Call (855) 435-4797 to schedule a consultation or visit their website to explore their services.