Northern California Runaway Trailer Accidents Attorneys
Northern California Runaway Trailer Accidents
Runaway trailer accidents happen when a trailer disconnects from the tractor or cab hauling it. A runaway trailer, weighing thousands of pounds and barreling down a road at high speeds, can destruct anything in its path, including smaller passenger cars. The exact number of runaway trailer accidents and fatalities is not exactly known because the federal government does not collect data on this type of accident, however, several independent studies estimate that hundreds have of innocent victims have died and thousands have been injured in runaway trailer accidents. Serious injuries deserve serious results, and at Estey Bomberger, our northern California big rig accident attorneys will fight aggressively for injured victims’ right to maximum compensation.
Why do Northern California Runaway Trailer Accidents Happen?
Failing to properly attach the trailer to the cab is the major cause of runaway trailer accidents in northern California and throughout the state. Rushed truck drivers may hitch the trailer to the cab incorrectly and fail to use back-up safety chains, which can help prevent a runaway trailer accident from occurring. There have also been numerous runaway trailer accidents that can be attributed to old or outdated trailer towing equipment. Trucking companies looking to save money may not replace an old or outdated hitch. In both scenarios, the truck driver and trucking company could be held financially liable for a victim’s damages, although a trucking company is usually held liable even if a truck driver was directly responsible. Federal law holds trucking companies responsible for almost every action of their truck drivers.
Northern California Runaway Trailer Injuries
If a victim survives a runaway trailer accident, their injuries are typically very severe. A runaway trailers large size and weight creates a powerful force when hitting smaller passenger cars. Common runaway trailer accident injuries include traumatic brain injuries, head injuries, bone fracture injuries, limb loss injuries, neck injuries, back injuries, hip injuries, lacerations, internal organ injuries and death.
Preventing Northern California Runaway Trailer Accidents
Although commercial trucks and trailers are highly regulated by the federal government, truck drivers and trucking companies that fail to comply with federal regulations can contribute to or directly cause a northern California runaway trailer accident. Tragic commercial truck accidents can be avoided if truck drivers and trucking companies take the necessary safety precautions, such as:
- Replace defective or old parts
- Use qualified companies to make truck repairs
- Maintain truck equipment in accordance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) standards
- Provide operating instructions for truck drivers on all equipment
- Provide truck drivers with safety guidelines
- Ensure only commercially licensed drivers are operating trucks.
Free Consultation with a Northern California Runaway Trailer Lawyer
If you or a family member has been seriously injured in a runaway trailer truck accident, call Estey Bomberger at (800) 890-6722 to speak with one of our northern California tractor trailer accident lawyers for free. During a free consultation with one of our northern California personal injury lawyers you will learn how our firm can help you obtain a substantial settlement for your damages. For several decades, we have helped victims and victims’ families recover compensation for hospital stays, funeral expenses, medical costs, time away from work, loss of quality of life, and pain and suffering. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.