Driving through Colorado, whether you’re heading west on I-70 through the foothills or commuting along I-25 through Denver, means sharing the road with countless commercial trucks. When those trucks carry unsecured loads, the risk to drivers, motorcyclists, and pedestrians skyrockets. One stray object can shatter a windshield, trigger a chain-reaction crash, or send a vehicle careening off the road. We’ve seen these accidents happen near Red Rocks, through tight curves in the mountains, and even in heavy city traffic.
At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, we understand how devastating these crashes can be. If you or someone you love was hurt by debris or shifting cargo, we’re here to help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Colorado’s Cargo Securement Laws
Truck drivers and trucking companies are required to follow specific safety rules when it comes to loading cargo. In Colorado, C.R.S. § 42-4-1407 makes it illegal to operate a vehicle that drops, leaks, or spills any load onto the roadway.
Commercial trucks must also comply with federal cargo securement rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules require:
- The use of proper tie-downs for various cargo types
- Regular inspection of loads during transit
- Secure loading methods to prevent movement or shifting
If these standards aren’t followed, it’s not just a violation—it can form the basis of a strong injury claim.
Who May Be Liable for an Unsecured Load Accident?
Unsecured load accidents often involve more than just the truck driver. Depending on the facts, several parties could share responsibility:
- The driver, for failing to inspect the load or driving recklessly
- The trucking company, for poor training, supervision, or overloading
- A third-party loading company, for unsafe practices during loading
- Maintenance providers, if faulty equipment contributed to the incident
We’ll work to uncover who played a role by reviewing driver logs, load assignments, maintenance records, and shipping contracts. You shouldn’t have to figure out liability on your own. That’s our job.
How Unsecured Loads Cause Accidents
When cargo isn’t secured correctly, it doesn’t take much for a serious accident to happen. We’ve seen these incidents occur in a few common ways:
- Items fall from flatbeds or open trailers onto the highway
- Cargo shifts and causes the driver to lose control
- Debris scatters across lanes and creates a chain-reaction crash
- Large objects strike windshields or force drivers off the road
High-traffic areas, such as I-25, I-70, and steep mountain passes, especially near Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Eisenhower Tunnel, or when heading toward Black Hawk, experience a number of these collisions. The injuries are often severe, ranging from concussions and spinal trauma to broken bones and even death. In many cases, victims require emergency care, surgeries, and extended rehabilitation. We understand how overwhelming this can be, and we’ll help you pursue the financial support you need.
Gathering Evidence in an Unsecured Load Truck Case
These cases require quick, thorough action. Evidence can disappear fast if it’s not preserved early on. We know what to look for and how to get it. Here’s how we help build your case:
- Requesting driver logs, load manifests, and inspection reports
- Gathering surveillance footage, traffic cam video, or dashcam clips
- Interviewing eyewitnesses, police, and first responders
- Consulting with accident reconstruction professionals to understand how it happened
Time is a significant factor. If you’re injured, don’t wait. We’ll take immediate steps to secure the proof needed to strengthen your claim.
How We Can Help You Move Forward
At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, we represent people, not corporations. We know how these truck accidents affect your health, your family, and your ability to work. That’s why we fight for everything you’re owed.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
We’ll take care of the legal process while you focus on healing.
Contact Our Experienced Denver Truck Accident Attorneys
Whether your crash happened on a winding descent from Loveland Pass or in a busy construction zone on I-70, we’re ready to help. If you’ve been injured because of an unsecured truck load in Colorado, call the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya for a free consultation. We’ll take the time to understand what happened, explain your options, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.