What’s the Best Load Board for Cargo Vans?
September 13, 2024 | Sagi Shaked | Blog
Cargo vans are used to transport freight across cities and states. Companies own some cargo vans. Independent drivers and contractors may operate single or multiple cargo vans. In either case, the owners can use load boards to find shippers.
Load boards are websites that connect shippers and carriers. Shippers upload information about loads, and carriers find loads to keep their cargo vans on the road.
Examples of load boards for cargo vans include, but are not limited to:
Cargo van owners earn money by moving freight efficiently. If they damage or lose cargo, they are responsible for the costs. If improperly secured cargo causes an accident, the owner could be liable for the damages caused by the accident.
Cargo Van Loads Must Be Secured Properly
Improperly loaded cargo can contribute to or cause a cargo van accident. Shifting cargo could cause the cargo van to roll over, or the driver may lose control of the vehicle. Examples of causes of cargo van accidents related to cargo include:
- Overloading a cargo van so that it exceeds the weight restrictions imposed by the FMCSA
- Cargo that is not adequately secured to prevent shifting during transport
- Loading cargo so that it is unevenly balanced
The FMCSA has strict rules for how drivers and shippers must secure cargo loads. Drivers must inspect cargo and securement before leaving on a trip and whenever the status changes. They must also inspect the cargo during the first 50 miles and then every 150 miles or every three hours, whichever comes first.
Injuries Caused by Cargo Van Accidents in Florida
Even though cargo vans are not as large as semi-trucks, they have extensive blind spots, limited maneuverability, and considerable weight. Therefore, cargo vans can be very dangerous in a traffic accident.
Cargo van accidents can cause catastrophic injuries for accident victims. Common truck accident injuries include:
- Fractured and broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Chest injury
- Paralysis and spinal cord injuries
- Amputation and loss of limbs
- Neck injuries and whiplash
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
If you are injured in a cargo van accident in Miami, seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Prompt medical care can reduce the risk of complications and permanent impairments. It also supports a personal injury claim by linking your injuries to the cargo van accident.
What Damages Can I Receive for a Cargo Van Accident in Florida?
Damages caused by a cargo van accident include financial losses. These economic damages include:
- The cost of past and future medical treatment
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Personal and/or nursing care
- Lost wages and benefits
- Occupational, physical, and rehabilitative therapies
- Reduction in future earning capacity
Accident victims also experience pain and suffering because of their injuries. These non-economic damages include:
- Physical discomfort
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Diminished quality of life
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
The cargo van driver, owner, operator, and other parties could be liable for your damages. However, you must prove that the party caused or contributed to the cause of the accident to hold them liable for your damages. Furthermore, if you are partially to blame for causing the accident, your compensation could be reduced under Florida’s contributory fault laws.
What Is the Deadline for Filing Claims for Cargo Van Accidents in Miami, FL?
Florida has a two-year statute of limitations for filing most personal injury lawsuits. Accidents that occurred before March 24, 2023, may have a different statute of limitations. Additionally, exceptions to the rule and the circumstances in your case could change the time you have to file a claim.
Missing the filing deadline could result in the loss of legal rights. Therefore, seeking legal advice as soon as possible after a cargo van accident is essential. Gathering evidence and identifying the liable parties could take time, especially if multiple parties are involved.
Commercial vehicle accidents are complicated personal injury claims. Hiring an attorney can be your best option to protect your rights. An attorney has the resources and skills to conduct a thorough investigation to determine fault and liability.
Contact Our Truck Accident Law Firm in Miami, FL
If you or a family member was injured in a cargo van accident, we can help. Call Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with an experienced Miami cargo van accident lawyer.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami truck accident lawyers at Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyers
20900 NE 30th Ave Suite 715
Aventura, FL 33180
(305) 937-0191