When a truck drops cargo, it’s a reckless act that can put lives at risk
A large truck losing a load isn’t just a traffic problem. It poses a serious safety hazard that can lead to major truck accidents and put lives at risk.
Truckers hauling heavy loads are required to follow strict federal regulations for securing cargo. Even with precautions, incidents like this can still occur, which is why officials urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially when traveling near large trucks or through active work zones.
Steel coil spill in Decatur highlights how devastating these crashes can be
In one recent incident, drivers on the I-565 westbound exit ramp to southbound I-65 in Decatur faced an unexpected traffic mess after an 18-wheeler dropped a massive steel coil, damaging the overpass and forcing lane closures. The incident not only slowed traffic but also set off a series of repairs that needed to be made, according to the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT).
The trouble started when an 18-wheeler carrying heavy steel coils lost one of its loads while traveling along the westbound exit ramp to I-65 south. The coil rolled onto the roadway, damaging both the pavement and the bridge structure beneath it.
Decatur police quickly responded, shutting down the right lane to keep traffic moving safely through the interchange. For drivers heading south on I-65, the ramp was reduced to a single lane, which created delays during busy travel hours.
ALDOT inspectors found that the bridge’s approach, deck, and rail all suffered damage in several spots. While some of the issues could be quickly patched, other sections (particularly along the right shoulder) were damaged enough to require temporary steel plates to cover them until permanent repairs could be made. The impact also damaged part of the guardrail, resulting in the shoulder being closed.
What counts as an unsecured cargo load?
An unsecured truck load is any cargo that isn’t fastened, contained, or supported in a way that prevents it from shifting or falling during transport. This isn’t just about items falling off a flatbed. It can also mean freight inside a trailer that moves around enough to affect the truck’s stability.
Examples include:
- A steel coil that isn’t strapped down tightly enough
- A dump truck carrying gravel without a cover
- Furniture sliding around inside a moving van
- Heavy machinery that isn’t chained in place
These problems can happen due to faulty tie-downs, worn equipment, rushing through loading procedures, or simply failing to double-check the securement before getting on the road.
Why are unsecured truck loads so dangerous?
The danger comes from the weight and force involved. A steel coil might weigh several tons. Even a smaller item, like a toolbox, becomes a deadly projectile at highway speeds. When cargo shifts or falls, a truck driver can lose control, nearby drivers may swerve into other lanes, and collisions can pile up quickly.
Common crash scenarios include:
- Falling cargo: Objects drop into traffic, giving other drivers little or no time to react.
- Shifting loads: Weight moves inside the trailer or on a flatbed, throwing the truck off balance and increasing the risk of a rollover.
- Flying debris: Lighter materials such as plywood or tarps can detach and hit other vehicles or obscure windshields.
Who can be held liable for a crash caused by unsecured cargo?
When an unsecured load causes a crash, multiple parties may share legal responsibility. Determining who is at fault depends on the facts of the case, but it often comes down to one or more of the following:
- The truck driver: When a driver fails to notice or fix a securement problem, they may be held liable.
- The trucking company: Companies must train their drivers on load securement, maintain equipment in a safe condition, and ensure compliance with all regulations. They can be responsible if poor policies or a lack of training contributed to the crash.
- The loading company or shipper: If a third party loaded the cargo, they could be liable for failing to secure it properly. This is common when freight is loaded at a warehouse or manufacturing site.
- Third-party contractors: Specialized contractors hired to load or secure certain cargo can be held accountable if their work was done improperly.
- Manufacturers of securement equipment: If a strap, chain, or other tie-down failed because of a defect rather than improper use, the manufacturer could face a product liability claim.
Should I get a lawyer if I was hurt in a truck accident due to unsecured cargo?
Were you or a loved one injured in a truck accident in Alabama due to unsecured cargo? You don’t have to deal with the trucking companies and their insurance providers alone. Dean Waite & Associates, LLC knows how quickly trucking and insurance companies work to protect themselves after a crash. We’re ready to move just as fast to protect your rights.
Our law firm serves clients across Alabama. We have the experience, resources, and determination to hold negligent drivers, trucking companies, and other responsible parties accountable for the harm they cause.
If you decide to work with us, we can begin an immediate investigation and preserve inspection records, driver logs, and securement violation citations before they are destroyed or lost. We work with accident reconstruction experts, review police reports, and dig into every detail to build a strong case for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Hesitate…Call Dean Waite!
Your consultation is free, and you pay no fees unless we win your case. That means you can get trusted legal help without any upfront cost or financial risk.
If you’ve been hurt in an unsecured load truck accident anywhere in Alabama, contact us to schedule your free case evaluation. The sooner you act, the better we can protect your rights.
“Dean Waite and everyone that works for him are really nice. They never left me in the dark about my case. Would recommend them to anyone.” - T.M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐