Semi-trucks are growing increasingly common on roads all across the United States, with the rise of large online shopping companies and the establishment of shipping warehouses all over the country. As such, the number of semi-truck accidents has been on the rise due to the sheer volume of these vehicles. Understanding how these vehicles operate may help clarify liability and other factors in a trucking accident.
Therefore, many drivers may wonder “How much does a semi-truck weigh?” The weight of semi-trucks can affect factors like the truck’s velocity and the driver’s ability to control the vehicle on the road. Taking into account the heavy loads that trucks carry, the weight of these vehicles could drastically change the outcome of a semi-truck accident.
For those wondering how much does a semi-truck weigh, and other questions relating to trucking accidents, a skilled Missouri truck accident lawyer from Steelman Gaunt Crowley may have answers. Consider scheduling a consultation today by calling the office at (573) 341-8336.
Laden and Unladen Weight of Semi-Trucks
To understand the question of how much does a semi-truck weigh, one must consider several factors. The weight of the vehicle itself must be taken into account, including the cab, trailer, and other elements, but this does not account for the weight of the semi-truck’s load. Laden and unladen trucks have vastly different weights, and this amount may vary depending on the type of load, loading company, and other factors.
The cab of a semi-truck without a trailer can weigh between 10,000 and 25,000 pounds, with bigger cabs like sleeper cars generally weighing in on the higher end. This can be between twice and four times the weight of an average car. Trailers, depending on the size and type, can weigh up to 10,000 pounds when unloaded. This means that the total unladen weight of a semi-truck could be up to 35,000 pounds.
However, semi-trucks are designed to haul large and heavy loads across long distances. As such, fully loaded semi-trucks may weigh significantly more than unloaded trucks. Due to the potential dangers of overloaded trucks, there are limitations on how much weight any given semi-truck can carry divided into categories based on truck classification. However, according to the Revisor of Missouri, the maximum amount that the highest-rated semi-truck can carry is 80,000 pounds. This means that the maximum weight of a high-rated and fully loaded semi-truck would be approximately 115,000 pounds.
Semi-Truck Classifications
The Federal Highway Administration classifies trucks and vehicles into eight different classes, based on weight ratings. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is used to determine the carrying capacity of vehicles and regulate load weights. Most large semi-trucks will be classified as either class 7 or class 8 vehicles, which are rated for 26,001 lbs and over.
However, more specific regulations may be in play for semi-trucks based on the number of axles supporting the weight of the load. Smaller trucks with fewer axles could be capped at no more than 34,00 lbs, while the largest vehicles could carry up to 80,000 pounds. Understanding the proper weight classifications and restrictions on a truck could impact a trucking accident case.
For those who wonder how much does a semi-truck weigh, and how that could affect a trucking accident, consider speaking with a skilled semi-truck accident attorney from Steelman Gaunt Crowley.
Why Understanding Truck Weight Matters in a Truck Accident Case
While understanding truck weight may seem irrelevant in a truck accident case, the weight of a truck may have a significant effect on many factors. The weight of a vehicle often affects how the vehicle handles, as well as changing its velocity. These factors could all influence the nature of an accident due to the physics involved. However, vehicle ratings and loading practices also have a legal impact on a trucking accident case. If a truck is overloaded, it may be unsafe, which could imply liability on the part of the loading company, trucking company, or driver.
Changes in Stopping Distance for Heavy Trucks
Heavier trucks take more force over breaking periods to stop, due to the added weight increasing the truck’s inertia. Heavier trucks, therefore, may require longer stopping distances than other vehicles. The amount of weight present, the driver’s training, and the rating of the semi-truck may all play a role. Additionally, heavier loads may put more strain on the equipment such as breaks and axles, which could lead to equipment failure.
Federal Regulations
Federal regulations limit the amount of cargo certain vehicles are allowed to carry. Smaller vehicles with lower ratings may only be able to carry smaller loads, relegating the heavier loads to specialized semi-trucks. Understanding the weight rating of the trucks and other vehicles involved could reveal negligence of one party or another.
Property Damages from Overloaded Trucks
Overloaded trucks may be more difficult to stop or may be more prone to equipment malfunctions, both of which can lead to truck accidents. In a trucking accident, property damage may be caused in proportion to the severity of the truck. Two cars moving at parking lot speeds may not cause as much damage as a semi-truck traveling at highway speeds. Therefore, greater weight carried by the truck involved could lead to more serious property damage.
Fines for Overloaded Semi-Trucks
Many highway systems have weigh stations for trucks to ensure compliance with local and federal laws. At these stations, trucks will be directed onto a scale to weigh their cargo, and their weight rating for the vehicle will be checked. If the truck driver is found to be in violation of the regulations, there may be several consequences for the driver or perhaps the trucking company.
Drivers found in violation of weight regulation standards may be subjected to fines and other legal consequences. However, they may also be required to offload a portion of their cargo to meet compliance standards. The driver may face points on their commercial driver’s license (CDL) as well. However, if the truck driver should be involved in an accident with overloaded cargo, they may face increased liability for the accident due to failure to comply with weight regulations.
Speak with a Missouri Trucking Accident Lawyer
How much does a semi-truck weigh? Understanding this question and its potential impact on a trucking accident case could help clarify liability. The guidelines and regulations on semi-truck weight and cargo carrying capacity may affect multiple variables that could shift the outcome and affect compensation. An experienced Missouri trucking accident lawyer from Steelman Gaunt Crowley may be able to evaluate a truck accident case and provide insight. For more information, consider speaking directly with an attorney by scheduling an appointment at (573) 341-8336.
