Many fatal truck crashes in Dallas are the result of a rollover. Other vehicles involved in truck rollover accidents are just no match for the sheer size and weight of a semi that’s rolled over and may swing across the roadway. Many truck rollovers are actually preventable. Read on for an overview of possible causes of rollovers.
Common Preventable Causes of a Truck Rollover Accident
Improper loading: Responsibility for loading a truck may exist with an entity other than the trucking company, such as a shipper. But ultimately the driver and the trucking company must ensure the truck is properly loaded and the load is secure.
If the load isn't secure or balanced, it can cause items to shift. This poses the risk of a rollover, especially when the truck is making a turn. The same is true if the truck is overloaded.
The center of gravity becomes an issue for cargo trucks transporting liquids. When the center of gravity is higher, there is less stability. If the liquid moves with strong force from si
de-to-side, it can cause the truck to roll. This is more likely to occur when it's a partially loaded cargo truck because the liquid has more room to move.
The cargo itself could also pose a risk during a rollover. The load might spill, which depending on the material being transported, could expose drivers to hazardous material or cause crushing or other injuries.
Truck driver behavior: What the driver does behind the wheel of a truck can also lead to a rollover. In some cases, a driver’s poor driving couples with an improperly loaded semi to cause an accident. Some of the preventable actions of a truck driver may include braking or accelerating too quickly.
Speeding is another common cause for a rollover. This can happen when the driver has exceeded the posted speed limit or is going too fast for conditions, such as during rainy weather. Rollovers caused by speeding may occur when taking a curve or exiting/entering a ramp.
There are many other types of driver behavior that could result in a rollover, some examples include:
• texting while driving;
• impairment;
• fatigue; and
• other careless and/or reckless actions.
Truck maintenance: Not properly maintaining the truck is another preventable cause of a rollover truck accident. Before taking the truck on the road, drivers must inspect it. If they do not, they could miss something important like worn brakes or low tire pressure, both of which can be contributing factors in this type of crash.
What to Do When You or Someone You Love Suffered Serious or Fatal Injuries in a Truck Rollover
It's important to consult an attorney as soon as possible. If the truck accident was the fault of the driver or other parties, an attorney can determine liability for damages. Sometimes liability includes the trucking company that employs the driver or others such as a shipping company. By securing legal counsel in Dallas, you will also have the help you need to gather evidence necessary to prove fault. Also, the attorney can deal with the insurance company and help you build your case.
