Just One More Box: 5 Examples of How Overloading Causes Sarasota Truck Accidents

In these difficult economic times, there is more pressure than ever before for Florida truck drivers to transport cargo loads quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately, this may lead some drivers to load more cargo than is safe onto their truck, or to rush rather than taking the time to properly secure it. This results in an increased risk of Sarasota truck accidents for motorists throughout the state.

What many travelers do not realize is that just because a truck appears to be operating normally does not necessarily mean that it was properly loaded. It is not always clear from outward appearances when the danger of an improperly loaded truck is present. If the cargo has not been properly balanced and secured, the risks include the following:

1. If the cargo is overloaded and the driver shifts, the driver can lose control over the truck, causing a Sarasota truck crash.
2. If the driver overloads the truck beyond acceptable weight limits, the tires on the vehicle can burst. Burst tires can result in loss of control over the vehicle.
3. If the cargo is overloaded or improperly balances or secured, the truck may not be able to climb steep inclines. This can create a hazard in the roadway.
4. If the driver is operating an overloaded truck, it may be difficult to stop when traveling downhill. The brakes could fail.
5. Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks are more susceptible to both rollovers and jackknives on Florida roadways.

Overloaded or improperly loaded tractor trailers are difficult for even the most experienced drivers to control. Since the risks are so high and not readily apparent to other motorists, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has regulations governing these loads. Trucking companies and their drivers must operate in accordance with these regulations in order to protect the safety of Sarasota travelers.