Big trucks haul heavy loads on a regular basis. In fact, they serve as the primary method for transporting large quantities of goods across the country. However, federal law determines the maximum weight that trucks can carry to ensure their safety on the road. When trucks exceed those weight restrictions, their drivers can face an increased risk of an accident. After an overloaded/overweight truck accident in Jackson, you may need to work with a dedicated truck accident attorney to determine who bears liability for the accident and how you can recover compensation.
Mississippi follows federal regulations for truck weights, which means a maximum of 80,000 pounds for a truck without a special permit. On each single axle, a truck can carry only 20,000 pounds, and the tandem axle limit is set at 34,000 pounds.
The state allows trucks to obtain special permits to haul heavier weights, with allowances of up to 150,000 pounds for trucks operating 24 hours a day and 180,000 pounds for loads that will only be moved during daylight hours.
Overweight truck accidents can be caused by several potential driving challenges, including:
In addition to the challenges faced by truck drivers, overweight trucks can place more strain on bridges and other structures in Jackson, which may increase the risk of collapse and accidents.
After a Jackson overloaded truck accident, identifying the liable party can allow individuals to pursue compensation for their injuries and the losses they may face. Liable parties may include:
In some cases, multiple parties may share liability for the decision to put a truck on the road with too much cargo or cargo that exceeds federal weight restrictions.
Filing a claim for compensation in Jackson after a wreck with an overloaded truck allows the injured individual to recover funds that cover some of the financial losses associated with a devastating accident. Due to the difficulty in controlling overloaded trucks and the mass involved in a collision, many of these accidents result in substantial injury claims. Most claims will include compensation for the injured person’s medical expenses, any lost income because of the accident, and their pain and suffering.
Overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Jackson can involve complicated investigations and negotiations with the insurance company that covers the liable party. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help you navigate these challenges and increase the odds that you will recover fair compensation for your losses.
At Weldy Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve. We will fight to help you demonstrate the full extent of the damages you sustained and determine who bears liability for your accident. Contact us today for your free consultation.
(601) 624-7460