If you are a truck driver in the state of Virginia, you understand just how important it is to drive according to the law and abide by safety and collision protocols at all times. Overloading a truck can lead to disastrous outcomes while you are out on the road.
Increased risk of mechanical failure
An overloaded truck bed or semi-truck can quickly increase the severity of truck accidents as the risk of mechanical failure skyrockets. When a truck is overloaded, there is no guarantee that the load will not cause a breakdown or mechanical failure even while you are in the midst of driving from one location to the next.
Poor brakes and poor braking
Another common issue that leads to serious truck accidents is poor brakes and poor braking maintenance. Semi-trucks and larger trucks carry thousands of pounds, sometimes 80,000 pounds or even more. For large semi-trucks, at least 500 feet may be required to stop at 60-65 mph, which is why maintaining brakes year-round is essential.
Increased chance of deadly or severe collisions
Whenever you are carrying a truck that is overloaded, you drastically increase your chances of being involved in a serious or deadly collision. When a truck is overloaded, it is much more difficult to stop or prevent collisions, especially when they occur unexpectedly, resulting in much more serious and deadly outcomes.
Overloading a truck should be avoided at all costs, even if you are in a hurry or have a strict schedule. Adding to the risk of transporting a heavy load can lead to serious financial, legal, and medical repercussions if an accident occurs.
