Weight analysis compares actual gross and axle weights against federal and state limits, typically eighty thousand pounds gross with specified axle and bridge formula constraints. It also assesses distribution and center of gravity.
Sources include weigh tickets, bills of lading, scale records, and post-crash weighing.
Alternative Names:
Weight Analysis, Overweight Analysis
Why it Matters?
Overweight and improperly distributed loads lengthen stopping distance and raise rollover risk, which makes weight a direct causation issue rather than a technical violation. The analysis frequently identifies the shipper as a defendant, since loading and weight distribution are often the shipper's responsibility. Weigh tickets and scale records should be sought early because they exist outside the carrier's control.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Why does load weight matter to causation?
Who is responsible for load weight?
