Oversized load trucks are essential for transporting cargo that can’t be divided or is too heavy for a regular commercial truck to handle. As useful as these vehicles are, they can also be responsible for truck accidents that cause devastating harm. If you have been in a collision in Charleston, SC, with one of these vehicles, you may be wondering what your legal options are.
At Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm, our Charleston truck accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and fight for a settlement or jury award. We have six years of experience and have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
Call (843) 278-2222 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
How Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm Can Help After An Oversized Load Truck Accident In Charleston, SC
Our Charleston truck accident attorneys can assist you by:
- Investigating your case
- Securing oversized-load permits
- Collecting black-box, dash cam, and logbook data
- Establishing liability (driver, carrier, and/or loader)
- Proving safety/permit violations
- Negotiating with insurance adjusters
- Taking your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our team has been offering comprehensive legal services to the people of Charleston, South Carolina, for many years. We are a client-first law firm dedicated to providing compassionate and dedicated assistance to those who have suffered due to the misconduct of others.
Schedule a free consultation today with Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm. Our Charleston personal injury lawyers are ready to answer your questions and help you navigate the legal process.
What Is An Oversized Load Truck?
Oversized load trucks transport heavy and large cargo that exceeds the standard legal weight and size of vehicles allowed on the road. You can often spot them transporting construction machinery such as cranes, agricultural equipment, pre-built homes, and even wind turbine blades.
These trucks feature specialized trailers with drop decks and flatbeds, making it easier to accommodate complex shapes and sizes. To operate an oversize load truck, truckers must obtain special permits and carefully plan their routes.
Additionally, these trucks often rely on pilot cars, which are escort vehicles that help keep others on the road safe by warning them of the truck’s size and weight.
Common Causes Of South Carolina Oversized Load Truck Accidents
One of the most common reasons for these accidents is cargo that is not secured correctly. It could be missing tie-downs or be unevenly spaced, making it easier for the load to slide and shift. This can result in rollover accidents and loss of vehicle control.
Driver error and inexperience are other common problems. Trucking companies must ensure that the drivers they select have been properly trained; otherwise, they could attempt maneuvers that are unsafe.
Just as other commercial truckers do, those who operate oversize load trucks must respect federal hours of service regulations. These dictate how long a driver may operate the vehicle without rest. If a trucker fails to obey these regulations, they could be exhausted behind the wheel, putting themselves and everyone on the road at risk.
These vehicles are prone to equipment failure. They are large and require regular maintenance, which not all companies provide. A lack of monitoring could result in tire blowouts, brake failures, and many other serious issues.
Can I Still Recover Compensation Even if I Was at Fault for My Truck Accident?
It is possible to be partly at fault and still recover losses because the state has a modified comparative negligence law. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can recover damages. However, your winnings will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
To receive compensation, you have to demonstrate that the other party owed you a duty of care that they breached, causing your losses. Although it may sound simple to do, there could be questions about fault and other complications that could put your claim at risk if you don’t have assistance.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Lawsuit In South Carolina?
Under South Carolina law, you typically have three years to file a truck accident lawsuit. There are some exceptions to this deadline, but if you miss the applicable deadline, you will likely be barred from compensation. We can ensure that you meet all relevant deadlines in your case.
Contact Our Charleston Truck Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
Accidents involving oversize load trucks tend to result in serious injuries. These translate into significant medical expenses, the inability to work, and many other losses. At Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm, we can assist you in the process of fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Call our Charleston truck accident attorneys today to arrange a complimentary consultation.