(845) 802-0047If the sheer weight and size of a big rig is not scary enough, cargo trucks add bulk and weight when they transport significant payloads on our roadways. This multiplies the danger to other individuals on or around the roadway. New York trucking accidents involving large cargo trucks are likely to result in catastrophic personal injuries or a horrifying wrongful death of an innocent person due to the inherent risks of these vehicles. Even though many cargo trucks are allowed on New York roadways, sometimes by a special permit, this is still not a shield to liability when something goes wrong.
Cargo trucks are large commercial vehicles which are transporting abnormally large payloads. This could be in the form of a box truck with particularly heavy cargo that is above the maximum allowed weight. Or it could be a flatbed truck which is hauling a construction vehicle or heavy construction equipment. Some cargo trucks are delivering multiple cars on a car carrier, while other cargo trucks are transporting big pieces of machinery. In any event, cargo trucks are especially dangerous to all others on or near the roadway.
Reasons Why Cargo Trucks Are Dangerous
There are two main reasons why cargo trucks are dangerous. The first reason is because of the increased size and weight of these commercial vehicles. The larger and heavier a vehicle is, the more force it generates because of its increased momentum. This is particularly true on fast-moving highways, thruways, and interstates. The larger size also means larger blind spots which make it more difficult for cargo truck drivers to see other vehicles and safely maneuver their vehicles.
The second reason is that cargo trucks have abnormally large, unique, and heavy payloads. This means that it takes extra time and precautions to properly secure these unique objects onto a cargo truck. But this also means it takes more time to make the delivery, which translates into less profit. Unfortunately, this puts us in danger when trucking companies and cargo truck drivers cut corners to make money faster. Cargo could topple off, fall off, roll off, or otherwise come off of a cargo truck and cause significant injuries or wrongful death to other people around the cargo truck. Unsecured cargo can also fall off and block portions of the roadway which may create a dangerous hazard for motorists who may be unable to stop in time.
Common Injuries Caused by Cargo Trucks
When a New York trucking accident involves a cargo truck, it is likely that innocent people will sustain serious personal injuries or may be wrongfully killed. Some of the most common injuries caused by cargo trucks include the following:
- Crushing injuries by cargo falling off a cargo truck;
- Neck and back injuries, including whiplash;
- Brain injuries including traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis or quadriplegia;
- Broken bones and fractures;
- Amputations;
- Significant disfigurement;
- Nerve injuries, including brachial plexus nerve injuries;
- Wrongful death; and
- Many other types of injuries.
We Help Victims Hurt by Cargo Trucks in a New York Trucking Accident
Collisions with cargo trucks can be life-changing for a victim and his or her family. This is because cargo truck crashes are usually violent and powerful types of New York trucking accidents. This is due to the sheer size and weight of the cargo truck and its payload. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured or if a loved one was wrongfully killed in any type of cargo truck crash in New York, please call our New York trucking accident lawyer to learn how we can help you today.