Accidents involving large commercial trucks are some of the most devastating. When a truck weighing upwards of 80,000 pounds crashes into a much smaller passenger vehicle, the occupants in the smaller car often suffer catastrophic injuries. This is especially true when higher speeds and lack of control are involved, which apply in cases involving runaway trucks.
If you were recently injured in a runaway truck accident, an experienced truck accident lawyer with Caruso Law Offices can discuss your legal rights during a free consultation.
What Is a Runaway Truck Accident?
A runaway truck refers to a commercial truck going down a slope out of control. The truck gains speed as it goes down the hill, sometimes to the point where the driver is unable to control or stop it. The brakes may overheat and fail. The truck may ram into unsuspecting motorists at the bottom of the hill.
What Causes Runaway Truck Accidents?
The leading cause of runaway truck accidents is driver error. These serious crashes can occur when the driver:
- Fails to inspect the vehicle that would have identified problems with the brakes or other truck components
- Speeds
- Fails to brake
- Fails to reduce speed
- Fails to change gears
- Fails to use the pedal brake
- Fails to use the emergency brake
- Fails to use an available runaway truck ramp
An experienced truck accident lawyer can investigate your case to determine how it happened and who is at fault.
Who Is Responsible for Runaway Truck Accidents?
After a runaway truck accident, it’s crucial to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can investigate your case to determine which of the following parties is responsible for your accident and, therefore, responsible for compensating you:
- The truck driver – Truck drivers may cause runaway truck accidents because they speed, are distracted, do not respond appropriately to road or weather conditions, or are impaired. Truck drivers are also responsible for completing visual inspections of the truck to determine if any safety issues are present.
- The trucking company – Trucking companies are responsible for hiring drivers who are qualified to drive these massive vehicles. They are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. They can be held liable for the negligence of their drivers.
- The truck owner – A separate owner or company may be responsible for ensuring the truck is kept in safe condition. They may be held liable when mechanical issues contribute to the accident.
- The maintenance company – Runaway truck accidents can occur because of mechanical issues, such as worn-out or defective brakes, tire blowouts, or suspension issues. The company responsible for maintaining the fleet may be responsible for truck accidents caused by these issues or failing to conduct regular brake inspections.
Our skilled legal team can investigate your case to determine the parties responsible for your injuries and the legal theories to hold them accountable.
How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help?
A truck accident lawyer can help with every aspect of your case, including:
- Investigating the crash and identifying all at-fault parties
- Preserving and gathering important evidence in your case
- Documenting your damages
- Handling communications with the insurance company
- Monitoring case deadlines and ensuring your claim is filed within the statute of limitations
- Negotiating a fair settlement
Get started on your path to financial recovery by contacting Caruso Law Offices for a free case review.