Oversize Truck Collisions

Most of us have seen trucks emblazoned with a bright yellow and black “oversize load” banner barreling down the highway. These oversize trucks are longer, wider, or taller than the norm, and typically used to transport extremely large cargo, such as shipping containers, industrial equipment, and prefabricated homes.

Due to their size and weight, these trucks can cause serious accidents.

Oversize Truck Requirements

Legally, an oversize truck is one taller than 14 ft., longer than 65 ft., more than 8 ft. 6 in. wide, or heavier than 80,000 lbs. In Texas, these trucks are only permitted on roadways between one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset.

Trucks not exceeding 10 ft. in width, 14 ft. high, or 100 ft. long may travel at night on interstates only. In addition, 12 in. square red or fluorescent orange flags are required on all extremities of the load.

Oversize Truck Risks

Oversize trucks increase the risk of some types of accidents, due to:

  • Extended stopping distances. Adding more mass to a vehicle increases the amount of force needed to stop it, thereby lengthening stopping distances. This increases the risk of devastating rear-end collisions.
  • Greater fatality risks. Oversize trucks tend to cause more damage due to their size and weight. As the mass of a truck increases, so does the risk of death in the event of a collision.
  • Heightened risk of tire blowouts. Oversize loads can overwhelm a tire’s ability to handle the pressure, causing them to explode. These blowouts are extremely dangerous, since they can cause a driver to completely lose control over his truck.

Truck Injury Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a collision with an oversize truck, you’re entitled to pursue damages for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. You need a truck accident attorney to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about what the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., can do for you, visit us on Facebook.

Free Case Review

Fill Out The Form, It’s quick, easy and FREE. Simply tell us how to get in touch with you.













    Initial consultation is always FREE Call Us 713-CALL-LEE or CONTACT US HERE