Statistics provided by the Tennessee Department of Safety demonstrate that there were a total of 691 truck accidents throughout Knox County in 2008. Of these accidents, some of them included out of gauge cargo accidents.
Out of gauge cargo simply refers to an instance where the dimensions of the cargo being transported exceed the standard containers internal dimensions. Thus, due to this large cargo being taller and wider than the standard container, it must be carried different than usual.
At Greg Coleman Law, our truck accident lawyers take pride in helping guide injured victims in pursuit of the maximum compensation benefits available for their injuries, and will fight tirelessly to recover for the losses and damages resulting from your accident.
To learn more, complete the Free Case Review form on this page Its 100% free.
Types of Out of Gauge Cargo
Many times, out of gauge cargo is referred to as oversize cargo. Thus, at some point in every drivers life, they will encounter an oversized truck. These trucks will typically be labeled so, and often have a convoy of trucks or automobiles surrounding the vehicle.
Some types of out of gauge cargo include:
- Agricultural Machinery
- Concrete Construction Pipes
- Construction Equipment
- High Power Transformers
- Industrial Equipment
- Large Pipes
- Long Goods
- Metal Coils
- Modular Homes
As transporting out of gauge cargo is extremely difficult, it is not uncommon for these trucks to become involved in an accident. In addition, these accidents are typically more severe, as there is an enormous size differential between these vehicles and the typical passenger vehicle.
Out of Gauge Cargo Rules and Regulations of Transportation
The government has set both federal and state limitations in order to regulate the maximum height and weight of cargo that may be shipped. In Tennessee, the maximum carrying capacity of a truck is 80,000 pounds, while these vehicles will also require a special permit to operate. As this is an enormous weight, there must also be a height requirement for these vehicles.
The height requirement for transporting objects is thirteen feet and six inches. However, if a company would like to transport an object over this particular height, they will be required to obtain a special permit to do so. Of course, height requirements may vary from state to state as there may be different clearances such as traveling through tunnels and bridges.
As previously mentioned, we may see an escort vehicle traveling along with these trucks depending on the specific measurements of these vehicles. These escort vehicles are intended to alert the truck drivers along with other motorists of this oversized vehicle.
Types of Out of Gauge Cargo Accidents
In some instances, out of gauge cargo can cause accidents due to its extreme size and abnormal shape. These accidents may be either at fault of the truck driver, or a negligent driver failing to realize the massive decreased maneuverability of these large trucks.
Some types of out of gauge cargo accidents include:
- Cargo shift
- Head-on collisions
- Insecure cargo
- Jackknife accidents
- Loss of cargo
- Rear-end collisions
- Rollovers
- Side impact accidents
- Under-ride accidents
Often times, when one of these accidents occurs, it will often lead to more serious injuries due to the large size differential between these vehicles and passenger vehicles.
Types of Out of Gauge Cargo Accident Injuries
To put it in perspective, injuries are usually caused by a large force, thus when an 80,000 pound over-size truck and a 3,000 pound car collide, it will typically cause severe injuries. These injuries may cause temporary or permanent damage depending on the actual severity of the accident however can also end in psychological trauma.
Some types of out of gauge cargo accident injuries include:
- Broken Bones
- Concussions
- Dental Injuries
- Facial Injuries
- Lacerations
- Loss of Limb
- Nerve Damage
- Psychological Injuries
- Neck and Back Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Whiplash Injuries
- Wrist Injuries
If you have been injured in an out of gauge truck accident, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. By seeking medical attention, it will not only ensure that all of your injuries have been attended to properly, but these medical documents can also be used by our attorneys against the negligent driver.
Contact Our Tennessee Truck Accident Attorneys Today
At Greg Coleman Law, our attorneys believe that negligent individuals need to be held responsible and accountable for their actions. With hundreds of millions of dollars in successful verdicts and settlements for our clients, we are able to provide the knowledge and experience to handler your truck accident injury litigation.
Being located in Knox County, our attorneys are able to provide services to clients throughout the entire state of Tennessee.
A few of the areas locations we serve include:
- Karns
- Clinton
- Oliver Springs
- Farragut
- Fountain City
For additional information, we welcome you to contact us at (865) 247-0080, where a member of our intake team will collect some of the details regarding your injury and quickly refer you to one of our compassionate attorneys.
Begin on this page by completing the Free Case Review form Its free.
