A Hazard You Never Saw Coming
You’re driving down the highway when, suddenly, debris spills from a commercial truck—forcing you to swerve, crash, or even collide with other vehicles. These accidents happen without warning, and the consequences can be devastating.
At Scholle Law, we know that truck cargo spills are preventable. When trucking companies fail to secure their loads, innocent drivers suffer the consequences. If you were injured because of an unsafe cargo spill, we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable.
How Do Truck Cargo Spills Happen?
Trucking companies and drivers must secure their loads properly to prevent dangerous spills. When they fail to do so, accidents occur due to:
🔹 Improperly Secured Cargo – Loads that aren’t strapped down can shift, fall, or spill into the roadway.
🔹 Overloaded or Unbalanced Freight – Exceeding weight limits or unevenly distributing cargo can cause a truck to tip or spill its contents.
🔹 Faulty Equipment – Malfunctioning doors, tie-downs, or securing mechanisms can lead to sudden spills.
🔹 Driver Negligence – Speeding, reckless lane changes, or sharp turns can cause poorly secured loads to break free.
🔹 Poor Loading Practices – If warehouse or cargo handlers fail to secure materials, the entire load is at risk of falling out.
When a cargo spill causes an accident, the trucking company and others involved in loading the truck may be liable.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Cargo Spill Accident?
Unlike a standard car crash, cargo spills often involve multiple responsible parties. Depending on the case, liability may fall on:
✅ The Truck Driver – If the driver failed to inspect or secure the load properly, they may be responsible.
✅ The Trucking Company – Employers are responsible for ensuring that drivers follow federal cargo safety regulations.
✅ The Cargo Loading Company – If a third-party warehouse or shipping company improperly loaded the truck, they could be liable.
✅ Truck Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers – If faulty trailer doors, straps, or fasteners caused the spill, the manufacturer or maintenance provider may be at fault.
At Scholle Law, we conduct a full-scale investigation to determine who is responsible and fight to recover maximum compensation for you.
How to Prove Negligence in a Truck Cargo Spill Accident
To win a claim against a trucking company or cargo handler, you need solid evidence proving their negligence. Our legal team gathers:
📷 Accident Scene Photos & Videos – Images of scattered debris, cargo spills, and vehicle damage can prove fault.
📑 Police & Accident Reports – Official reports may indicate violations of cargo safety regulations.
🎥 Traffic Camera & Dashcam Footage – Video evidence can capture the moment of the spill and the truck’s role in the accident.
🔍 Truck Maintenance & Inspection Records – If faulty doors, straps, or fasteners caused the spill, maintenance logs may confirm negligence.
📊 Black Box Data (EDR) – Trucks often contain electronic data recorders that track braking, speed, and sudden movements before a crash.
👀 Eyewitness Testimonies – Other drivers may confirm the cargo spill and how it led to the accident.
At Scholle Law, we use this evidence to build a strong case and fight for every dollar you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Cargo spills can cause serious accidents that lead to life-changing injuries and financial burdens. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
🔹 Medical Expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
🔹 Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work and future lost earning capacity.
🔹 Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and permanent physical limitations.
🔹 Property Damage – Vehicle repair or Actual Cash Value costs.
🔹 Wrongful Death – If a loved one was killed in a truck cargo spill accident, their family may seek compensation.
Trucking companies and insurers will try to limit their liability, but Scholle Law won’t let them get away with it.
Steps to Take After a Cargo Spill Accident
If a truck’s spilled cargo caused your crash, take these steps to protect your legal rights:
1️⃣ Call 911 Immediately – A police report will document the spill and determine fault.
2️⃣ Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries don’t appear immediately, so always get checked by a doctor.
3️⃣ Take Photos & Videos – Capture the spilled cargo, road conditions, and vehicle damage.
4️⃣ Collect Witness Information – Their testimony may be crucial in proving your case.
5️⃣ Do Not Speak to the Trucking Company’s Insurer – Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim.
6️⃣ Contact Scholle Law – We will handle all legal aspects and fight for full compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for a truck cargo spill accident?
Liability may fall on the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or equipment manufacturers—depending on how the spill occurred. Our legal team investigates to determine who is responsible.
What if I crashed while trying to avoid the spilled cargo?
Even if your vehicle didn’t directly collide with the truck, you may still have a case. If the spill forced you to swerve or crash, the trucking company may still be liable.
Can I file a lawsuit if the trucking company denies responsibility?
You may have a lawsuit case, yes. Trucking companies often deny liability to protect their profits, but Scholle Law can take them to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
You typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit, but waiting too long can weaken your case. It’s best to act quickly.
Call Scholle Law for a Free Consultation
If you were injured due to a truck cargo spill, don’t let the trucking company or their insurance provider avoid responsibility. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or fill out the contact form on this page to schedule your free consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.
Let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.