When most people picture a truck accident, they think of a standard semi hauling everyday goods. But what about oversized loads — those massive trucks carrying wind turbine blades, mobile homes, or heavy machinery that stretch across lanes and require escort vehicles? Oversized loads may look impressive, but if things go wrong, the consequences can be devastating.
If you’re involved in an oversized load accident in Ohio, you may wonder: Who’s responsible for the damages, injuries, and legal fallout? The answer often involves multiple parties, complicated regulations, and unique liability questions.
Let’s look at what oversized loads are, the types of accidents they can be involved in, and who may be held accountable when things go wrong.
What Counts as an Oversized Load?
An oversized, or “over-dimensional,” load is any vehicle or cargo that exceeds standard legal size or weight limits. Those limits are set by federal and state regulations. In Ohio, trucks typically need special oversized permits if they:
- Exceed 8 feet 6 inches in width
- Exceed 13 feet 6 inches in height
- Exceed 80,000 pounds in total weight
- Extend beyond 53 feet in trailer length
Oversized loads are common for industries like construction, energy, and manufacturing. Think about massive steel beams, oversized tanks, or even houses being transported down the interstate. These trucks are often accompanied by escort vehicles (also called pilot cars) to warn other drivers.
Why Oversized Load Accidents Happen
Despite the regulations, accidents still occur. Some common causes include:
- Driver error – A driver may misjudge a turn, lane change, or stopping distance.
- Improperly secured cargo – Loads could shift or fall off during transit.
- Poor route planning – Low bridges, overpasses, or tight corners have all captured trucks.
- Escort vehicle negligence – An escort could fail to properly direct traffic around the truck.
- Mechanical issues – Brake failures or tire blowouts are even more dangerous with oversized loads.
- Weather conditions – High winds, ice, or fog make controlling massive cargo loads more difficult.
Because oversized loads take up more road space and are more difficult to maneuver vs. standard vehicles, even minor mistakes can lead to:
- Pileups
- Severe property damage
- Life-threatening injuries
Who’s Liable for an Oversized Load Accident?
Unlike a simple car accident, oversized load crashes often involve multiple responsible parties. Determining liability requires a careful investigation into who contributed to the accident.
1. The Truck Driver
Truck drivers carrying oversized loads must follow strict rules and safety procedures. If they were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or failed to follow permit conditions, they can be found at fault.
2. The Trucking Company
Employers can share liability if they:
- Failed to train drivers
- Pushed unrealistic schedules
- Ignored safety requirements
- Cut corners on permits or maintenance
3. Escort Vehicles (Pilot Cars)
Escort drivers help oversized trucks avoid hazards. If they failed to warn of a low bridge, blocked traffic incorrectly, or otherwise neglected their duties, they may share liability.
4. Cargo Loaders
Shifting or falling cargo is a common cause of catastrophic crashes. If the oversized cargo wasn’t properly secured, the company or individuals who loaded it could be responsible.
5. Government Agencies / Permit Providers
In rare cases, a government agency may share liability if permits were issued incorrectly. They may also be liable if a dangerous route was approved without proper precautions.
Real-Life Examples of Oversized Load Mishaps
Oversized load accidents make headlines because they’re so unusual — and often dramatic. Across the U.S., there have been incidents involving:
- Wind turbine blades falling from trailers and blocking highways.
- Mobile homes colliding with bridges or breaking apart mid-transport.
- Construction machinery tipping onto nearby vehicles.
- Oversized pipes rolling off trailers and crushing cars.
While these stories may seem extreme, they highlight how dangerous oversized loads can be.
Why You Need a Lawyer Who Understands CDL Rules
If you’re injured in an oversized load accident, your case may involve federal trucking laws, Ohio state regulations, multiple insurance companies, and competing liability claims.
At Spivak & Sakellariou, we bring unique insight to these cases. Both of our attorneys hold Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). That means we know firsthand what it’s like to be behind the wheel of a big rig and the rules truck drivers must follow.
This perspective gives us an advantage when:
- Investigating accidents
- Questioning witnesses
- Holding negligent parties accountable
What to Do If You’re Involved in an Oversized Load Accident
If you or a loved one are in a crash involving an oversized load:
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident.
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries aren’t obvious at first.
- Document the scene with photos and notes, if it’s safe to do so.
- Get witness information, oversized load crashes often involve multiple cars.
- Contact a trucking accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
The trucking company and its insurers will work quickly to minimize their liability. You deserve someone who understands the complexities of trucking accidents on your side.
Call an Experienced Trucking Accident Lawyer Today
Oversized load accidents aren’t a typical car crash. They involve unique regulations, multiple parties, and high-stakes insurance battles.
At Spivak & Sakellariou, we know trucking law inside and out. Both of our attorneys are CDL-licensed and bring real-world experience to every case we handle. If you’ve been injured in an oversized load accident in Ohio, we’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call today for a free consultation. Let our experience guide you through the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oversized Load Accidents
What qualifies as an oversized load in Ohio?
In Ohio, trucks are considered oversized if they exceed 8’ 6” in width, 13’ 6” in height, 80,000 pounds in total weight, or 53 feet in trailer length.
Are trucking companies always responsible for oversized load accidents?
Liability can fall on the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, escort vehicles, or even the permit authority, depending on the cause of the crash.
Can weather be used as a defense in oversized load accidents?
Weather like fog, ice, or wind can play a role, but drivers and trucking companies are still responsible for adjusting their driving and load handling to the road and weather conditions.
What damages can victims recover in oversized load accident lawsuits?
Victims may recover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in severe cases, long-term disability or wrongful death compensation.
Why should I hire a CDL lawyer after an oversized load crash?
A CDL lawyer understands trucking regulations, driver responsibilities, and accident procedures. Spivak & Sakellariou both hold CDLs, giving clients an insider perspective on these complex cases.
