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Why Cargo Securement Matters in Commercial Truck Safety | Hourigan Kluger & Quinn

Learn how improperly secured cargo can cause serious accidents and what evidence may matter after a crash.

Improperly Secured Cargo Can Create Serious Roadway Hazards 

Securing cargo properly is a major safety issue in commercial trucking. Federal rules require cargo to be secured so it does not shift, fall, leak, spill, or otherwise create danger during transport.

When cargo is not properly secured, the truck may become harder to control. A shifting load can affect braking, turning, balance, and rollover risk.

Loose cargo can also fall from a truck and strike vehicles, create roadway debris, or force drivers to swerve suddenly.

Cargo securement evidence may include loading records, bills of lading, weight tickets, photographs, inspection reports, driver statements, company policies, and records showing who loaded or secured the cargo.

Responsibility may involve the truck driver, trucking company, shipping company, loading crew, warehouse operator, or another contractor.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains that cargo securement rules are intended to prevent cargo from shifting or falling from commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce.

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Understanding Your Legal Rights After an Accident

Understanding your legal rights after a cargo-related truck accident is important because the responsible party may be the driver, the trucking company, the loading company, or another business involved in transport. 

Click here for more information and to review your options.