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Who is liable if my car accident was caused by a truck's spilled contents on the road?

How is a car accident different from a tractor-trailer accident? When do I need an injury lawyer in West Virginia? Where can I get a free consultation? Get answers to your questions at the Miley Legal Group FAQ page. Our experienced attorneys have provided up-to-date responses for the most common questions following a personal injury.

A: The trucking company may liable for your car accident if it was caused by a truck's spilled contents on the road. This is one of the most dangerous types of truck accidents because they can affect numerous vehicles which are driving behind the truck when it spills its load. Such an incident can even lead to other chain-reaction auto accidents when motorists try to swerve to avoid the spilled contents.

Truck Drivers, Companies Responsible For Cargo

The law states that truck drivers and their employers are responsible for making sure that every load is secured safely before and during transport. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has instituted regulations which pertain to the loading and securing of cargo on tractor-trailers. So if these regulations are not followed, it may constitute a case of trucking company negligence.

Causes of Spilled Contents

There are several reasons why a truck spills its contents onto a roadway. These include:

cargo weighs too much for the truck to handle
improperly secured cargo
shifting loads during transport
driving too fast for roadway conditions
adverse weather

Third-Party Truck Accident Claims

It is important to note that the truck driver and their employer may not be the only ones to blame for a West Virginia truck accident involving spilled contents. Often, trucks are loaded with cargo by employees of a separate entity (such as a warehouse or train workers). So these employees and their companies might also be liable for any truck's spilled contents accident.

Contacting a Clarksburg Truck Accident Lawyer

When trucks collide with passenger cars, the results will likely be life-changing. Although there will be a lot of questions and important decisions to make during this time, choosing the right legal representation can help you make the most informed decisions possible while you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. The Miley Legal Group in Clarksburg, West Virginia will work with you to fight for the compensation you deserve and help you to move on with your life. Contact us today for a FREE consultation - (304) 326-1800.