Unsecured load accidents occur when cargo not properly fastened to a vehicle becomes dislodged, creating serious hazards on the road. These accidents can happen with pickup trucks, semis, commercial vehicles, or cars carrying items on the roof or in open trunks. 

Whether lumber falls from a pickup truck or luggage slides off a car roof, unsecured loads can cause devastating accidents, leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we represent victims of unsecured load accidents and help them recover the compensation they deserve.

How Unsecured Load Accidents Happen

Unsecured load accidents are often the result of negligence. Drivers and vehicle operators have a legal duty to secure any cargo they transport to prevent it from becoming a danger to others on the road. Unfortunately, many drivers, particularly in commercial settings, fail to secure loads properly, leading to accidents.

Common causes of unsecured load accidents include:

  • Overloaded vehicles: When vehicles, especially commercial trucks, carry more weight than they are rated for, securing the load can become more difficult, increasing the risk of spillage.
  • Improperly fastened cargo: Cargo must be secured with the suitable materials and techniques. Improperly tied down items or failing to check the fastenings before driving can cause loads to come loose.
  • Open truck beds: Pickup or commercial trucks with open beds often transport building materials, debris, and other bulky items. If these items are not secured, they can easily fall out during transit.
  • Roof racks or trailers: Cars with roof racks or trailers can become hazards when items like luggage, bicycles, or sports equipment are not tightly secured.

Catastrophic Injuries from Unsecured Load Accidents

When objects like lumber, metal, luggage, or other debris fall from a vehicle, the results can be devastating. These unsecured items can strike other vehicles, leading to high-speed collisions or causing drivers to swerve and crash. Some of the most severe injuries that result from unsecured load accidents include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Falling objects can strike vehicle occupants directly, causing severe head trauma. Even indirect impacts, like crashing into other vehicles or barriers while avoiding debris, can result in TBIs that require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Sudden collisions caused by unsecured loads can lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries may result in partial or complete paralysis, leaving victims with permanent disabilities and substantial medical expenses.
  • Broken Bones: Large objects, such as lumber or metal pipes, can cause vehicles to crash or roll over, leading to broken bones in the arms, legs, and ribs. Such fractures often require surgery, physical therapy, and lengthy recovery times.
  • Amputations: Accidents caused by falling debris can be so violent that they crush or sever limbs, leading to amputations. Victims may need prosthetics, long-term care, and ongoing rehabilitation.
  • Fatalities: Unsecured load accidents can be fatal in the most tragic cases. Whether due to direct trauma from the falling object or secondary crashes caused by drivers attempting to avoid the debris, these accidents leave families grieving and in need of legal help to seek justice.

What to Do After an Unsecured Load Accident

If you are injured or lose a loved one in an unsecured load accident, it’s essential to know your legal rights. The responsible party, often the driver or company transporting the load, may be liable for their negligence. Here are the steps you should take if you are involved in such an accident:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health and safety are the top priorities. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  2. Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of the scene, including the debris that caused the accident, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Also, note any witnesses who can provide testimony about what happened.
  3. File a Police Report: Ensure that a police report is filed. This documentation will be crucial when pursuing a legal claim against the responsible party. The report may also indicate if the vehicle’s driver carrying the unsecured load violated traffic or safety regulations.
  4. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Unsecured load accidents can be complex, especially involving commercial vehicles. An experienced personal injury attorney can help investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine liability. At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we specialize in handling cases involving severe injuries from unsecured loads and will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.
  5. Preserve Evidence: If possible, keep any evidence related to the accident, including damaged property, medical records, and bills. This will help build a solid case to prove the extent of your injuries and losses.

The best way to protect your rights and well-being is to work with the unsecured load accident attorneys at Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook. We will handle all the legal details, hold the responsible party accountable, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Talk To A Walnut Creek Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an unsecured load accident, turn to Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook. We offer free consultations, and there is never a fee until we recover for you. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim.