There are several reasons why accidents occur throughout the U.S. However, in the State of California, numerous traffic problems and accidents arise as a direct result of vehicles that have been either been overloaded or improperly loaded. Loose items such as trash, construction materials, equipment, luggage, aggregate materials (i.e. sand, stone, etc.), and improperly secured logs have created serious and life threatening hazards for California drivers.
In order to prevent these types of accidents, there are specific laws in California that address the proper loading and corresponding weight requirements of trucks within the State. First and foremost, California law requires that every driver, whether they were responsible for loading their vehicle or not, (i) inspect their vehicles prior to taking off, (ii) identify improperly secured items or those that are poorly balanced, and (iii) ensure that loads are covered and/or properly secured. Additional laws that apply to vehicle loading are as follows:
- Passenger vehicle load restrictions – in California, no passenger vehicle may be driven on any highway within the State that has anything extending beyond the car’s left side fenders. Moreover, nothing can extend more than 6 inches past the vehicle’s right side venders. Anything extending beyond the rear bumper must have a red flag or warning lights affixed thereto.
- Vehicle load height restrictions – no vehicle in the State is allowed to have a load exceeding fourteen feet in height from the road, with the exception of double decker buses.
- Containment of debris – under California law, a vehicle transporting loose items must be properly contained, whether through being covered, securely loaded, or constructed in a way so as to prevent loose debris from falling and potentially injuring other drivers.
- Aggregate material containment – California requires that aggregate materials, such as sand, stones, or recycled concrete, often used in construction, must only be stored in the cargo portion of a vehicle. Said area must not contain any openings or cracks that would facilitate the escape of said materials.
If you happen to notice a truck or any other type of vehicle that appears to have been improperly loaded or is creating a road hazard due to loose and falling debris, do not hesitate to contact police and report the driver. Make sure to get the make, model and license plate number of the offender. Taking the time to report these offenders can save countless lives. Additionally, if you transport cargo, it is crucial that you follow the above requirements. To learn more about safe vehicle loading, visit the California Department of Motor Vehicles’ website.
Contact the Skolnick Law Group Now for the Personal Attention You Deserve!
If you or someone you know has been injured, it is crucial that you hire an accident attorney experienced in handling these types of cases. At the Skolnick Law Group we will fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. We will also take the time necessary to answer all of your questions, guide you through the legal process, and assist you in making informed decisions about your case. We serve clients in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Vista, Oceanside, San Marcos and throughout North County San Diego. To learn more about the firm’s comprehensive legal services, contact us at (760) 405-4397, or, feel free to visit us online to schedule your free and completely confidential initial consultation. We have evening and weekend appointments available, and will also visit you at home in the event you can’t come to us. Don’t wait – give us a call now for the personal attention and aggressive representation you need.