Improperly secured cargo is common in truck accidents, creating serious risks for all road users. When cargo shifts or falls from a truck, it can trigger chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles. These accidents are hazardous for smaller cars and motorcyclists, who may have limited time to react to sudden debris. A Prince George’s County truck accident attorney can help determine whether improper loading, defective equipment, or inadequate supervision contributed to the incident. These cases often overlap with other factors, such as driver fatigue , which can compound the likelihood of accidents.
At Foran & Foran, we are committed to investigating every detail of your case, from loading procedures to employer oversight. Our team identifies all responsible parties, whether the driver, trucking company, or cargo loaders, to ensure accountability. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, contact us today for compassionate legal representation that prioritizes your recovery and seeks to improve road safety for others.
What Types of Cargo Are Likely to Fall?Falling cargo incidents often stem from improper securing of various types of loads. These can include:
Construction Materials: Lumber, steel beams, or pipes frequently fall when not adequately secured, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops.
Consumer Goods: Boxes of merchandise, furniture, and household items transported for retail or personal delivery often spill due to shifting during transport.
Hazardous Materials: Chemicals, fuel, or other dangerous debris that fall from a truck can create additional risks of fires, spills, or toxic exposure.
Agricultural Products: Crops, feed, or livestock can fall during transport, leading to hazardous road conditions and potential collisions.
Each type of cargo poses unique dangers, and these risks are amplified on Maryland’s busy roadways. In 2024 alone, there have been 511 reported fatalities from car accidents, with many involving large trucks transporting unsecured loads.
Accidents Falling Cargo CauseFalling cargo can trigger many accidents, often involving multiple vehicles. Common scenarios include:
Chain-Reaction Collisions: Debris in the roadway forces vehicles to stop suddenly, causing rear-end crashes and multi-car pileups.
Rollovers: A truck’s cargo shifting unexpectedly can lead to rollovers, which often block multiple lanes of traffic.
Loss of Control: Drivers swerving to avoid debris can veer off the road or collide with other vehicles.
Work Zone Crashes: Falling cargo is hazardous in work zones with limited space. Since January 1, 2023, Maryland has seen over 900 crashes in work zones, resulting in six fatalities.
These types of accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities, especially for smaller vehicles and motorcyclists who lack the protection larger vehicles provide.
Common Injuries Caused by Falling CargoFalling cargo accidents can cause devastating injuries to those involved. Victims may experience:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Debris striking a vehicle or passenger can cause severe head injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Sudden impacts or rollovers often result in spinal damage, leading to paralysis or chronic pain.
Broken Bones: Collisions caused by swerving or stopping to avoid cargo frequently result in fractured bones.
Burns or Toxic Exposure: In cases involving hazardous materials, victims may suffer chemical burns or respiratory issues from inhaling toxic fumes.
The aftermath of these injuries is life-altering, often requiring extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation.
Proving Liability in Falling Cargo CasesDetermining who is liable for an accident caused by falling cargo requires a thorough investigation. Liability may fall on one or more of the following parties:
Truck Drivers: Drivers are responsible for inspecting their loads and ensuring proper securing of cargo.
Trucking Companies: Employers must provide proper training and enforce safety protocols. Negligent supervision or pressure to meet deadlines often contributes to unsecured loads.
Cargo Loaders: Third-party companies tasked with loading cargo may share liability if they fail to follow proper securing procedures.
Manufacturers: If defective equipment, such as straps or containers, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may also be held accountable.
A Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can review inspection logs, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build a compelling case for liability. These accidents often overlap with other factors, such as driver fatigue or vehicle defects, which may also play a role.
Maryland Laws and Industry Standards for Cargo SecuringMaryland enforces federal regulations requiring commercial trucks to secure cargo according to strict standards. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that cargo must:
Be immobilized or secured by appropriate tie-downs;
Remain within the confines of the truck under normal driving conditions, including sudden stops or turns; and
Be inspected by the driver during pre-trip and en route inspections.
Failure to adhere to these regulations increases the risk of accidents and provides a clear basis for establishing negligence in legal claims.
Preventing Falling Cargo AccidentsPreventing falling cargo accidents requires strict adherence to safety protocols and regular oversight by trucking companies. Drivers and cargo loaders must follow FMCSA guidelines and perform routine checks to secure loads. Maryland law provides a framework for holding negligent parties accountable when these responsibilities are ignored.
By identifying and addressing the root causes of falling cargo accidents, victims and their families can pursue justice while promoting safer practices across the trucking industry. Through legal action, you can help reduce the number of preventable crashes and injuries on Maryland’s roadways.
Were You Injured in an Accident After Cargo Fell Off a Truck?Improperly secured cargo can turn a routine drive into a devastating accident in an instant. Falling items from trucks often strike nearby vehicles or create dangerous obstacles, leading to severe injuries. Foran & Foran, P.A., a dedicated Prince George’s County truck accident attorney firm, understands the complexities of these cases and will pursue justice against negligent drivers, trucking companies, or others involved. With a no-recovery, no-fee policy and a commitment to advancing all costs, the firm ensures your financial concerns don’t stand in the way of justice. Call 301-441-2022 or use the secure online form to schedule your free consultation.