Log Hauler trucks carry large loads that are both heavy and high. They have to move around in difficult terrain with gradients. Drivers operating these big rigs require special skill and training. Over-height forestry trucks can cause personal injury, torn down power lines, damage traffic signals, damage overpasses and bridges and damage equipment being hauled.

If you have been injured in a truck accident involving a logging truck, contact an attorney immediately to review whether you are eligible for compensation for your injuries.

Logging truck accidents are commonly caused by:

• Driver negligence and error: Drivers must stay alert and follow hours of service rules to minimize the chance of becoming fatigued behind the wheel. In addition, if a driver fails to practice safe driving such as looking for blind spots, making careful turns, or driving defensively, serious accidents can occur.
• Poor truck maintenance: Trucks are required to undergo regular maintenance, such as brake inspections, tire checks, and more to avoid safety issues while on the road. If a logging truck skips critical maintenance checks, this can result in deadly collisions.
• Improper loading: A truck’s cargo can pose many dangers, which is why there are regulations in place to make sure that trucks are not overloaded and that the cargo is secured. If logs loaded onto the truck fall, this can cause substantial damage to surrounding cars on the road.

To help prevent logging truck accidents, several precautions must be taken:

• Planning a route for low obstructions and possible detours if the load height exceeds the posted limits. Low bridges, power lines and phone lines to temporary structures such as hunting camps, farm buildings, etc. may be too low to pass under.
• Outside logs should not be loaded over the height limits
• Measuring the height of standards on new trailers and on repaired trailers to be sure an over-height situation does not exist.
• Always using binding chains, straps, or cables with the proper strength requirements for the load.
• Checking the load for shifted logs before unbinding.
• Securing and binding all equipment, including booms and grapples.
• Measuring the height of the total load after equipment is properly secured for travel.
• Obtaining over-height permits from appropriate state highway agencies.
• Using escort vehicles if required by the state agency.