Controversies

Load Craze has faced ongoing criticism over lax driver vetting and oversight leading to preventable safety issues. While the company maintains drivers are independent contractors, critics argue Load Craze needs stricter policies to ensure public safety.

And Load Craze's lightweight background check requirements have created controversy around safety:

• Limited vetting of drivers - With such limited background checks, critics allege that Load Craze allows drivers with criminal histories or suspended licenses to deliver for them. This puts customers at risk.
• No special licensing - Drivers do not go through any special licensing or training programs. This means novice drivers with little experience may be handling large delivery vehicles.
• Lack of accountability - The independent contractor status means Load Craze itself cannot be held liable for driver actions. Drivers are responsible for their own due diligence.
• Inadequate insurance - Standard personal auto insurance policies often do not cover commercial delivery services. This could leave customers or other motorists under-compensated in case of an accident.

While Load Craze maintains that drivers should be responsible for themselves, critics argue the company needs stricter oversight over who can represent them and handle customers' deliveries. The San Andreas Department of Transportation continues to monitor and investigate the company for potential policy violations.

History of Safety Issues

Since its founding in 2018, Load Craze has accumulated a track record of safety incidents:

• In August 2023, a Load Craze driver delivering heavy furniture was involved in a rollover accident that injured 2 other drivers. Load Craze stated he failed to properly tie down the load.
• A July 2023, investigative report found over 100 Load Craze drivers had prior DUI convictions or license suspensions. Load Craze claimed background checks will improve.
• In February 2023, a Load Craze driver spontaneously assaulted a restaurant manager who told him the order wasn't ready yet. The company said they would implement anger management training.
• Load Craze vehicles have been involved in thousands of accidents over the years, ranging from fender benders to fatal crashes. The company maintains it cannot be responsible for contractor actions.

While Load Craze has pledged to improve, critics argue a lack of accountability and oversight persists.

Deadly Blaine County Incident

The most tragic Load Craze incident occurred in September 2023 when improperly secured cargo fell off a Load Craze van on the Senora Freeway in Blaine County, crushing a passing car and killing an entire family of 4 and injuring 5 more people. 

Reports indicate the Load Craze driver had stacked heavy televisions unsecured along with other appliances he was contracted to deliver. As he switched lanes on the highway, the cargo tumbled out the back and directly onto the family's vehicle behind him.

In the aftermath, Load Craze stated the driver clearly violated protocol by not properly tying down his load. However, victim advocates argue the company does not enforce cargo standards or properly train its contractors.

The grieving family has filed a lawsuit against Load Craze citing negligent hiring and lack of safety oversight. Prosecutors are also filing involuntary manslaughter charges against the driver.

This tragedy has amplified calls for regulators and elected officials to impose stricter requirements on delivery apps like Load Craze to enforce accountability over contractors and public safety. However, Load Craze insists imposing more rules would undermine the flexibility drivers value.

The deadly Blaine County incident remains under active investigation. In the meantime, Load Craze faces renewed scrutiny over reforms to prevent similar negligence and driver misconduct from harming more innocent lives on San Andreas' roads.