Falling Debris

Truck cargo must be secured to reduce the risk of accidents. Debris falling from the back of a truck can strike other vehicles or create hazardous road conditions. It can also cause truckers to lose control of their vehicle.

When falling debris results from driver or trucking company negligence, victims can pursue a claim for compensation. Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, represents those who have been hurt or family members who have lost loved ones in truck collisions. For four decades, we have fought for the rights of injury victims and their families. Call 800-646-1210 today to schedule a free consultation.

Cargo loads must be properly secured on all trucks to prevent falling debris. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets performance criteria for cargo securement systems and for trucking companies and drivers loading commercial motor vehicles.

Cargo securement systems must be capable of withstanding specific forces associated with three decelerations and accelerations: deceleration in a forward direction; acceleration in a rearward direction; and acceleration in a lateral direction.

Each tie-down must be attached and secured by those loading the truck in a manner that prevents the tie-down from opening; loosening; becoming unfastened or releasing while vehicles are in transit. If the trailer is equipped with rubber rails, all components of the tie-down system must be secured inboard of the rub rails whenever it is practical to do so.

The tie-downs and cargo securement system must be used to ensure that all cargo is firmly immobilized within the vehicle. The structures must have adequate strength, dunnage or dunnage bags, tie downs or shoring bars.

In addition to these general rules, there may also be additional securement requirements for commodities of specific types.

The reason for the strict FMCSA rules for cargo securement is to prevent collisions resulting from falling debris. Cargo falling from a truck could hit other cars or could create obstacles in the road that result in drivers veering or slamming on the brakes.

Cars could be crushed by heavy equipment or other large items that fall from the back of trucks. If a truck is carrying hazardous material that falls from the back of a trailer, a fire or chemical exposure could result. All of this increases the chance of an accident or injuries occurring.

If debris falls from a truck and causes a crash, victims need to consult with a Southwest Florida truck accident lawyer. It may be possible to pursue a claim for compensation if the victim or family members can show the debris was the direct cause of the crash and that the falling debris resulted from negligence or a violation of safety rules.

Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured have represented victims of truck crashes caused by falling debris. We can investigate the cause of your accident and help you put together a claim for full and fair compensation following a serious or fatal collision involving road debris. Call 800-646-1210 today to schedule a free consultation.