The federal government established a set of laws to regulate the transportation of hazardous materials on commercial trucks. As you drive on the highway alongside a commercial truck, you may not think twice about what kind of cargo the truck carries. Thousands of these trucks travel miles across state lines, and many of them carry highly toxic materials.
Some of these regulations include:
- A sign must be posted on all trucks to indicate that the truck is carrying hazardous materials
- All truck drivers carrying hazardous materials must be trained on the cargo’s proper transportation
- The cargo must be secured tightly to the truck, and handled with extreme caution
- Trucks carrying hazardous materials may not drive on certain roads.
Truck accidents are already dangerous, but when highly toxic, poisonous, or explosive materials are involved, the results can be disastrous. At Glenda Cochran Associates Attorneys at Law, we advocate vigorously for our clients, no matter how complex the circumstances of the case may be. Led by our experienced and distinguished attorney, Glenda Cochran, who believes in passionate and zealous legal advocacy, she helps our entire legal team advocate and make justice a priority.
WHAT TYPES OF CARGO ARE CONSIDERED “HAZARDOUS?”
“Hazardous” materials are substances or material that may be flammable, radioactive, explosive, poisonous, or corrosive. These can be deadly not only to humans but also to the environment, particularly if a truck overturns or the substances or materials spill all over the road.
Here are some examples:
- Gasoline
- Dynamite
- Propane
- Ammunition
- Explosives
- Some forms of medication
- Radioactive waste
- Poisonous gases
- Infectious substances
HOW CAN I PROVE MY CASE?
Negligence is often the common denominator in most truck accident cases, whether the driver caused it, the driver’s employer, or even due to defects on the road. For example, there was debris on the road or a deep pothole that caused the truck to veer out of control.
Our AV Preeminent® rated attorney, Glenda Cochran, has access to some of the top-notch investigators experts in Birmingham and the country to pinpoint where, how and why the accident occurred. Attorney Glenda Cochran works with these investigators to uncover every detail, and re-create the accident which can later help with developing a strong claim.
If you were harmed by a truck accident carrying hazardous cargo, you might have a case! We urge you to call our office to speak with us during a risk-free, no-cost appointment.