There was a car crash in Crowley, Louisiana on November 20, 2024. According to reports, lumber that was being transported by an 18-wheeler fell off of the trailer on eastbound Interstate 10. A passenger car traveling behind the 18-wheeler swerved to avoid the lumber. The driver lost control of the car as he attempted to miss the debris in the highway. Additional details have not yet been released.
The recent car crash in Crowley, Louisiana highlights the significant dangers posed when cargo falls from large trucks onto the highway. Drivers traveling behind or near these trucks often have little time to react when debris suddenly appears in their path, leading to swerving, loss of control, and collisions. Incidents like this underscore the critical importance of proper cargo securing practices and the potential risks for other drivers when those practices fail.
When an 18-wheeler loses its load, the debris becomes an immediate hazard to vehicles on the roadway. Drivers often have only seconds to make a decision: attempt to avoid the debris or brace for impact. Swerving to avoid large or heavy objects, such as the lumber in this incident, can lead to overcorrection, loss of control, or collisions with other vehicles. Even smaller items can cause significant accidents if they puncture tires, damage windshields, or create a sudden need to brake. The unpredictable nature of these incidents makes them especially dangerous for those traveling at highway speeds.
The risk of serious injuries in crashes caused by unsecured loads is high. Drivers and passengers may suffer from whiplash, broken bones, or head and spinal injuries due to the abrupt maneuvers or collisions these situations often involve. In more severe cases, such as rollovers or multi-vehicle crashes, the injuries can be life-threatening or fatal. Additionally, the mental toll of such traumatic accidents can linger, affecting survivors’ long-term well-being.
Preventing these types of incidents requires strict adherence to federal and state regulations on cargo securement. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that loads on 18-wheelers must be properly secured using straps, chains, or other devices, and drivers are required to inspect their loads before and during transport. When these protocols are not followed, or when equipment used to secure loads is defective or worn, the likelihood of cargo falling onto the road increases dramatically. Trucking companies and operators must take responsibility for ensuring that all loads are safely and securely fastened.
Drivers on highways should also remain vigilant when traveling near 18-wheelers, especially those carrying visible cargo. Maintaining a safe following distance and being prepared for sudden hazards can reduce the risk of accidents. However, the primary responsibility lies with trucking companies and operators to prevent unsecured loads from becoming roadway dangers. When negligence in securing cargo leads to accidents, affected drivers may have legal options to seek compensation for their injuries, damages, and other losses. Incidents like the one in Crowley remind us of the devastating consequences that can occur when cargo securement is overlooked, and the need for accountability and preventative action.
There have been a number of recent accidents involving vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death. There was a crash involving multiple 18-wheelers on Interstate 20 near Canton, Texas on November 9, 2024. There was an 18-wheeler crash near Stonewall, Louisiana on November 7, 2024. A bicyclist was hit and killed in McAllen, Texas on November 13, 2024. There was a deadly 18-wheeler crash in Ector County, Texas on November 12, 2024. There was an 18-wheeler crash north of Amarillo, Texas on November 18, 2024.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving catastrophic auto and bus accidents. Our attorneys have extensive experience and the skills needed to aggressively represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in a trucking or commercial vehicle accident.
The experienced accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was involved in an accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 to learn more about your legal rights.