A load shift accident occurs when a truck’s cargo is not properly secured. While the truck is in motion, the load can shift and become unbalanced. This can throw off the truck’s center of gravity, pushing it toward one side. In some cases, the semi-truck may go out of control and leave the roadway, while other accidents happen when the truck tips over entirely.
In either case, people in vehicles around the truck could suffer serious injuries in the crash. But who is responsible? There may be multiple liable parties.
The crew that loaded the truck
To start with, the accident may have occurred because the load was not properly secured. The crew that originally loaded the truck at the warehouse or shipping center could be responsible for making mistakes that led to an accident—even if the driver had no way to avoid it.
The driver who failed to inspect the truck
Additionally, the driver is often required to inspect the load before operating the vehicle. If the driver was negligent and skipped this step, they may not have noticed that the load was not properly secured. They could be held liable for dangerously operating their vehicle, whether they intended to or not.
The company these employees work for
The workers who load vehicles and the truck drivers may just be employees of a shipping or trucking company. This company could also bear responsibility. For instance, perhaps they failed to supply the loading crew with the proper straps needed to secure the goods and materials in the truck. Or maybe they did not provide the driver with proper training on how to inspect the load to ensure that it was safe. In these cases, the company may be liable along with the individuals who made the negligent mistakes.
Seeking compensation is very important after these accidents, but it can be complex when multiple parties are involved. Take the time to carefully consider your legal options if you have been injured.