The Asheville area has plenty of lumber yards where homeowners can pick up supplies. If a driver transports large or unsecured loads, though, he or she may be a hazard to other motorists.
North Carolina has strict requirements for load sizes and securement. If a motorist does not adhere to these rules, your life may be in danger in one or more of the following four ways.
1. Flying objects
Before any driver carries objects, he or she should be certain to secure loads properly. When you are moving down the highway at a fast speed, dislodged objects may fly into your vehicle. Heavy or sharp items may penetrate your windshield, putting you and your passengers at risk.
2. Road debris
If a piece of cargo detaches and falls into the roadway, all drivers are in danger for a couple reasons. First, you may not see road debris in time to take evasive action. If you hit a dislodged object, you may crash or damage your vehicle. On the other hand, if you swerve, you may lose control and collide with another car or have a single-car crash.
3. Obstructed views
To operate their vehicles safely, all drivers must have a clear view through their windshields and other windows. If cargo obstructs a motorist’s view, he or she may inadvertently cause a collision. Likewise, if a driver is carrying large items, you may not be able to identify traffic hazards and other dangers.
4. Collisions
While it may be amusing to see lumber or other large objects sticking out of a rented truck, there is nothing funny about oversize loads. When items extend past a vehicle, they present a collision risk to other motorists. Therefore, drivers should take steps to increase the visibility of large or awkward loads.
If a driver does not flag an oversize load, your life may be in danger. The same is true if someone does not properly secure everything he or she hauls. Fortunately, if you sustain a serious injury due to someone else’s cargo, you may be able to pursue compensation from the individual or individuals who put your personal safety at risk.