While driving is relatively safe, the reality is that millions of road traffic collisions occur every year. Some of these collisions result in serious injuries and even fatalities. Collisions with trucks and commercial vehicles are especially dangerous due to the sheer size and weight of trucks.
Overloaded trucks are a notable hazard because there is no way for an overloaded truck to drive safely. How can you spot an overloaded truck?
1. Low-hanging suspension
When you look at a truck, you should be able to see a little spring in the suspension as it moves. There should be a slight bouncing up and down. Overloaded trucks don’t do this. Instead, the trailer will hang low on the suspension and there will be little to no movement. In extreme cases, you may even notice sparks flying out from the wheel arches. If you are driving near a truck that looks like this, then it’s best to give it a lot of space.
2. Other visible signs
Not all trucks have fully enclosed trailers. It may be easier to spot an overloaded truck when the trailer has no roo. For example, trucks carrying logs tend to carry them on a trailer without a roof. If the logs hang over the sides of the trailer or appear to be stacked very high, then this is a real danger. The logs could fall off of the truck and fly into oncoming vehicles.
3. Driver behavior
The signs of an overloaded truck may not always be obvious. Sometimes, you may have to look at how the driver is behaving. If the brake lights of a truck are constantly on, then this could indicate that the driver is struggling to slow down because the load is too heavy.
Overloading a truck is a form of negligence. If you have been injured in an accident with an overloaded truck, then you may be able to hold both the driver and the trucking company to account.