Runaway Trailers

Let Our Charleston Truck Accident Lawyers Help

Truck accidents can be terrifying. A truck and its trailer can weigh anywhere from 10,000 to 80,000 pounds. If that trailer detaches with a full load of cargo, the damage it can cause is catastrophic. When truck drivers lose control of their trailers, the trailer can veer any which way into traffic, hitting cars and any pedestrians in the way. On freeways, when trucks are going as fast as 55 MPH or more, the force behind a high-speed, out-of-control trailer can be devastating to property and people alike.

Why Do Trailers Break Loose?

Trailers can unhitch from the truck for a number of different reasons. For example, if there is a defect in one of the components of the hitch or mount, it could corrode or crack breaking the trailer away from the truck.

Other reasons for trailers coming loose include the following:

• Speeding
• Steep declines
• Sudden turns
• Overloaded trailers
• Rusted components
• Manufacturing or design defect
• Reckless driving
• Lack of proper maintenance
• Improper security
• Electrical shorts

Any incident in which a truck driver loses control of his or her vehicle could result in the detachment of the trailer, particularly if the truck was improperly maintained.

Who Is Liable in an Accident?

Depending on the circumstances of the accident any of several people or companies could be held responsible for any bodily harm or property damage that happens as a result of the collision. Driver errors that lead to the accident and loss of control of the trailer could lead to the liability of the truck operator in addition to any company that may have hired him or her. For example, if the driver has no history of inappropriate behavior, the driver might be held entirely liable for any accident. However, if the company hired a driver with a record of poor driving or DUI convictions, the company would be held completely responsible for hiring a negligent driver.

Call Us About Your Case Today!

If you were injured in a runaway trailer accident, let us help. Our skilled Charleston truck accident attorneys believe you deserve fair compensation for the damage done to you and your property. At Berthold Law Firm, PLLC, we provide a variety of counseling and legal services to personal injury victims. Our firm has more than 60 years of combined experience to offer your case. Let us see what we can do for you.