Oversize load trucks play a key part in moving large items like construction equipment, manufactured homes, and large industrial materials. But because of their size and weight, these vehicles can also pose serious risks on the road. When something goes wrong, the results are often more severe than in standard trucking accidents.
If you’ve been involved in a crash with one of these trucks—or know someone who has—it helps to get in touch with a distinguished law firm to understand what sets these cases apart.
What Counts As An Oversized Load?
Not every large truck qualifies as oversize. A load is considered “oversize” when it exceeds the legal size or weight limits set by state or federal transportation rules. This often means:
- A load wider than 8.5 feet
- A load taller than 13.5 to 14 feet
- A load longer than 48 to 53 feet (depending on the trailer)
- A vehicle with a combined weight above 80,000 pounds
These trucks often require special permits and may be accompanied by escort vehicles, also called pilot cars, to help manage traffic and warn other drivers.
Common Causes Of Oversize Load Accidents
Oversize load accidents can happen for several reasons. One of the most common is poor route planning. These vehicles need plenty of space and may not be able to safely pass through narrow roads, sharp turns, low overpasses, or bridges with weight restrictions.
Other common causes include:
- Tire blowouts due to heavy weight
- Equipment falling from an unsecured load
- Driver fatigue or error due to long haul times
- Poor visibility or blind spots made worse by the oversized cargo
- Speeding or braking too late for the vehicle’s size
When these issues occur, the consequences can be widespread, sometimes involving multiple vehicles and blocking several lanes of traffic.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Responsibility in these accidents doesn’t always fall only on the driver. In some cases, the trucking company, the company that loaded the cargo, or even the party responsible for route planning could share in the blame. For example, if a load was not properly secured or if escort vehicles failed to do their job, it can affect who is legally responsible for the crash.
Attorneys like those at Palmintier Law Group can attest that investigating these cases often requires reviewing logs, permits, cargo records, and maintenance reports. That’s part of what makes these cases more involved than a standard car or small truck accident.
Injuries And Property Damage Can Be Severe
Oversize loads can crush smaller vehicles and cause serious injuries, even at lower speeds. Victims may face long recovery periods, high medical costs, and lost time at work. If a crash leads to a death, family members may have a right to file a wrongful death claim. Whether you were injured or lost someone in this type of crash, it’s important to take legal steps quickly to protect your rights.
How Legal Support Makes A Difference
A qualified truck accident lawyer will understand what to look for in these types of cases. From reviewing the permits to understanding how the load was secured, there’s a lot that goes into holding the right parties accountable. Witness statements, black box data, and inspection reports all help paint a clearer picture of what happened.
Our colleagues at Palmintier Law Group discuss how these accidents can impact families long after the scene has cleared. They handle serious trucking cases, so they’ve seen firsthand the importance of building strong cases with clear facts and timely action.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an oversize load accident, it’s worth talking to a legal professional about your options. Even one conversation can help you move forward in a more informed and confident way.