How Our Oversize Load Truck Accident Lawyers Help in Fort Worth
We gather the permit, weight, and loading records that show whether the load was legal and handled safely. Those records sit with several companies, so we move to preserve them quickly.
When you hire us, we:
- Request the oversize or overweight permit and the approved route
- Get weight tickets, bills of lading, and loading records
- Identify escort vehicles and check whether required flags, signs, and lights were used
- Obtain the crash report and driver records
- Pursue the driver, carrier, shipper, and any other responsible party
Why Oversize and Overweight Trucks Cause Serious Crashes
Extra size and weight change how a truck handles. A loaded tractor-trailer already weighs far more than a car (see how much a semi truck weighs), and going beyond legal limits makes it worse.
Common dangers include:
- Longer stopping distances and brake failure
- Rollovers on curves and ramps
- Tire blowouts from excess weight
- Wide loads crossing into other lanes
- Tall loads striking bridges or overpasses
- Cargo shifting or falling from the trailer
Texas Permit Rules for Oversize Loads
Oversize and overweight loads in Texas generally require a permit through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Permits can restrict the route and hours of travel and may require escort vehicles, warning signs, and flags.
Violations that often appear in these cases:
- Traveling off the permitted route
- Driving at night or in conditions the permit does not allow
- Missing escorts, signs, or lights
- Loads heavier or larger than the permit states
Who Is Liable for an Oversize Load Accident?
More parties may be responsible than in a typical truck crash. Possible defendants include:
- The truck driver
- The motor carrier, for its driver’s negligence and its own safety failures
- The shipper or loading company, for overloading or poor securement
- Escort or pilot car operators
- A company that planned an unsafe route
Texas comparative fault rules split responsibility by percentage, and you can recover if you are 50% or less at fault. You generally have two years from the crash to file suit.
About Brad Parker
Oversize Load Truck Accidents in Fort Worth, Texas FAQs
What is the difference between an oversize and an overweight truck?
An oversize load exceeds legal width, height, or length limits, such as a wind turbine blade or a house. An overweight truck exceeds legal weight limits. Both generally need a permit in Texas, and both raise the risk of crashes when rules about routes, escorts, and loading are ignored.
Who is liable if an overloaded truck caused my accident?
Liability can fall on the driver, the trucking company, the shipper or loader that put too much weight on the trailer, and anyone who arranged an improper permit or route. Weight tickets, bills of lading, and permit records help show which party made the mistake.
What if the oversize truck had a permit?
A permit does not excuse careless driving. Drivers and carriers must still follow the permit's route, time, and escort conditions and drive safely for conditions. A crash outside the permitted route or with missing escorts or markings is strong evidence of negligence.
How much does an oversize load accident lawyer cost?
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers handles oversize and overweight truck cases on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney's fees unless we recover money for you. Our fee will never exceed your recovery, and we explain the exact terms in writing before we start.
Visit Our Fort Worth Office
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
209 N Hampton St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
- Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday Closed
