Overweight Trucks

Overweight trucks are a serious hazard on Maryland roads, often causing devastating accidents in Prince George’s County and beyond. Maryland imposes strict weight limits for commercial trucks, but when these limits are exceeded, the excessive weight can strain braking systems, destabilize the vehicle, and increase stopping distances. These violations often lead to catastrophic mechanical failures or collisions, putting other road users at significant risk. A knowledgeable Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can help determine if an overloaded truck caused your crash and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

At Foran & Foran, P.A., we know how frequently overloaded trucks violate state and federal regulations, endangering everyone on the road. These cases often involve other contributing factors, such as tire blowouts or defective components, requiring a detailed investigation. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you secure justice and compensation for your injuries.

Trucking weight limits protect public safety, prevent roadway damage, and minimize the risk of catastrophic accidents. In Maryland, large trucks are subject to federal and state regulations, including a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) limit of 80,000 pounds for most commercial vehicles. Trucks exceeding this limit must obtain special permits and adhere to designated routes.

The consequences can be severe when trucking companies or drivers disregard these limits. Overweight trucks strain braking systems, reduce maneuverability, and significantly increase stopping distances. These factors make overweight trucks a leading cause of multi-vehicle collisions, often involving passenger vehicles. A Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can help you determine whether weight violations contributed to your crash and hold negligent parties accountable.

Operating an overweight truck is not only illegal but also highly dangerous. Overloaded vehicles are more likely to experience:

Brake Failure: Excess weight places undue stress on braking systems, increasing the risk of mechanical failure during critical moments.

Tire Blowouts: Overloaded trucks generate excessive heat in their tires, leading to blowouts that create hazardous debris on the road.

Rollovers: The added weight raises the truck’s center of gravity, making it more prone to tipping over during turns or sudden maneuvers.

Bridge and Roadway Damage: Overweight trucks can cause structural damage to bridges and roadways, further endangering all road users.

These dangers highlight why strict enforcement of weight limits is essential. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving an overweight truck, a Prince George’s County truck accident attorney can investigate whether improper loading or weight violations played a role.

Overweight trucks contribute to a variety of serious accidents, including:

Rear-End Collisions: An overweight truck's increased stopping distance makes rear-end crashes more likely, particularly in heavy traffic.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Overweight trucks are harder to control in emergency situations, often resulting in chain-reaction crashes.

Jackknife Accidents: The added weight can cause trailers to swing uncontrollably, blocking multiple lanes of traffic.

Bridge Collapses: Trucks exceeding weight limits can compromise bridge integrity, leading to devastating failures.

According to recent data, large trucks account for 7% of vehicle miles traveled but are involved in 11% of all traffic crash fatalities. These statistics underscore the disproportionate danger overweight trucks pose on Maryland’s roads.

Determining liability in crashes involving overweight trucks often requires a comprehensive investigation into the actions of multiple parties. Truck drivers play a crucial role, as they ensure their vehicles comply with weight regulations and report any issues to their employers. Trucking companies may also be liable if they pressure drivers to exceed weight limits or enforce proper loading procedures. Additionally, third-party cargo loaders who improperly load trucks or disregard weight restrictions may share responsibility for the resulting accidents. A Prince George’s County truck accident lawyer can review inspection records, weigh station data, and loading practices to identify negligent parties and build a strong case for compensation.

Most fatalities in large truck crashes involve occupants of passenger vehicles. This disparity occurs because trucks are significantly heavier and larger, making them more dangerous in collisions. In Maryland, where thousands of crashes occur annually, overweight trucks pose an even greater risk.

Studies show that two-vehicle collisions between trucks and passenger vehicles constitute the majority of fatal truck crashes. Overweight trucks amplify these risks by reducing a driver’s ability to avoid accidents and increasing the impact force during collisions. Victims often suffer severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal organ injuries.

Preventing accidents caused by overweight trucks relies on strict adherence to regulations and proactive enforcement. Regular inspections at weigh stations are essential to ensure trucks comply with established weight limits. Driver education also plays a critical role, as proper training helps drivers understand the dangers of operating overweight vehicles and the importance of reporting weight-related concerns. Technological solutions, such as onboard weighing systems, can alert drivers when a truck exceeds its GVWR. Holding trucking companies and drivers accountable for compliance with these measures is vital to reducing the risks associated with overweight trucks and improving roadway safety.

Overweight trucks put everyone on the road at risk by reducing a vehicle’s stopping ability, increasing tire wear, and causing catastrophic structural failures. If you’ve been harmed in a crash involving an overloaded truck, you may be entitled to compensation. The Prince George’s County truck accident attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A. have extensive experience holding drivers and companies accountable for violations of weight limits and other safety regulations. With contingent fees, free consultations, and a commitment to meeting clients at home or in the hospital, we ensure compassionate representation every step of the way. Contact us today at 301-441-2022 or through our secure online contact form.