In the United States, the transportation industry relies heavily on the nearly 14 million registered commercial trucks; they transported approximately 11 billion tons of freight in 2022. To achieve this, many semi-trucks and trailers are carrying the current maximum load weight of 80,000 pounds. This creates a huge weight difference between cars and trucks.
This huge difference in weight between cars and trucks carries significant implications. The two types of vehicles handle very differently on the road. Failing to recognize the differences can cause risks of being involved in a catastrophic truck accident. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, a catastrophic injury attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Semi-Truck Data Shows
Federal data reveals a sharp rise in deadly crashes involving large trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that annual fatalities from collisions with big rigs have surged 50.5% between 2012 and 2022, climbing from 3,944 to 5,936 deaths. In that decade, a staggering 52,252 people nationwide lost their lives in crashes with large trucks. This deadly trend cuts across all states with California (+67%) and Georgia (+73%) seeing the largest increase. The increase is being seen across New York State as well. Truck crashes on the New York State Thruway are all too common, with many resulting in fatalities.
Disturbingly, yearly fatality numbers may escalate further if certain congressional proposals backed by major shipping companies succeed. One bill would launch a decade-long “pilot” legalizing 91,000-pound trucks – more than 5 tons heavier than current limits. Another would permanently authorize 88,000-pound trucks carrying automobiles, exceeding the interstate weight cap by 10%. A third would allow any governor to unilaterally raise maximum weights during declared “crises,” without analysis, creating a patchwork of hazardous limits across states. The differing limits will lead to confusion and additional violations for trucking companies as well as increased fatalities across the country.
Truck wrecks are deadly enough. We need to push for increased safety standards and regulations to decrease fatalities before increased loads can be considered. One life taken due to increased weights on trucks is one life too many.
Understanding Semi-Truck Weight Limits
In New York, the weight of semi-trucks is regulated by both federal and state laws. These regulations ensure that trucks do not exceed the capacity of roadways and bridges, which could lead to structural damage and accidents. The key factors influencing these weight limits include the type of truck, the number of axles, and the distribution of the load.
Federal Weight Regulations
The federal government sets a baseline for truck weight limits across the United States. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the maximum weight for a semi-truck is 80,000 pounds. This includes the weight of the truck itself, the trailer, and the cargo. The distribution of this weight is also crucial, with specific limits placed on the weight each axle can bear:
- Single Axle: 20,000 pounds
- Tandem Axle: 34,000 pounds.
New York State-Specific Regulations
While the federal regulations provide a general framework, New York State has additional rules that truck drivers must follow. These state-specific regulations can vary based on the type of roadway and local ordinances. Here are some key points for semi-truck weight limits in New York:
- Maximum Gross Weight: As per New York state law, the maximum gross weight for a semi-truck is 80,000 pounds, aligning with federal standards.
- Bridge Formula: New York uses the “Bridge Formula” to determine allowable weights based on axle spacing, ensuring that the distribution of weight minimizes damage to roads and bridges.
- Seasonal Restrictions: During certain times of the year, such as spring thaw, weight limits on some roads may be temporarily reduced to prevent damage.
Effects of Truck Weight on Driving Behavior
The substantial weight of a truck leads to significant handling consequences such as:
- Longer acceleration time
- Greater power needed to move from a standstill
- Increased stopping time and distance compared to passenger vehicles
- A higher profile, making it more susceptible to tipping in high winds or on sharp turns
- Reduced visibility and much larger blind spots, especially when pulling a trailer
- Decreased control during weather conditions.
The weight of a truck plays a critical role in the extent of damage it can cause to other vehicles in a collision. The severity of a truck accident and resulting injuries is directly proportional to its energy at the moment of impact. For these reasons, it is essential to keep proper distance between trucks and passenger vehicles and exercise extra caution during heavy traffic or weather conditions. Ensuring safety around trucks demands vigilance from everyone on the road.
An experienced Buffalo truck accident attorney can help victims and their families interpret and apply these laws to their advantage. Feroleto Law provides invaluable support and guidance during the challenging and emotional time after an accident, offering a sense of reassurance and a path to justice. We are essential advocates for you.
Contact Our Truck Accident Law Firm In New York State
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in New York State, contact Feroleto Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Our dedicated team of legal professionals understands the complexities of truck accident cases and is committed to providing you with the best possible representation. We have a proven track record of securing fair compensation for victims of truck accidents, and we are ready to fight for your rights. contact Feroleto Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
Attorney John Feroleto
Attorney John Feroleto understands the value of hard work. He is known in the community and by his peers for his willingness to work and go the extra mile. Other lawyers often ask John to handle their trial matters to maximize clients’ recovery. Trial lawyers know who the best trial lawyers are. He was also named Trial Attorney of the Year in 2012 by the Western New York Affiliate of New York State Trial Lawyers Association. [ Attorney Bio ]
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