A runaway truck or trailer accident occurs when a commercial vehicle loses its braking capability or becomes detached from its towing vehicle and travels uncontrolled down the road. Runaway trucks are capable of crushing vehicles, demolishing structures, and claiming lives in seconds. Once a truck or trailer breaks free, stopping it becomes nearly impossible, leaving everyone in its path vulnerable to severe harm.
The Milwaukee truck accident lawyers at Cannon & Dunphy, S.C. have the experience to help you pursue a winning legal case.
What Causes a Milwaukee Truck or Trailer to Become a Runaway?
Runaway truck and trailer accidents often result from preventable failures and negligent decisions. The most common causes include:
- Brake failure due to worn components, overheating on steep grades, or inadequate maintenance
- Improper trailer coupling or hitch connections that allow separation during transit
- Mechanical defects in braking systems or coupling equipment
- Driver error, including riding brakes on downhill stretches or failing to use proper gear
- Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo that stresses braking systems beyond their limits
- Inadequate driver training on proper driving techniques and emergency procedures
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wisconsin Runaway Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one were hit by a runaway truck or trailer in Wisconsin, you have the right to seek legal action. By filing a lawsuit against the parties responsible, you can recover compensation to help pay for every way that the accident has affected your life.
Liability in a runaway truck or trailer accident often involves multiple parties. For example:
- The truck driver may bear responsibility if their actions or negligence contributed to the incident.
- Trucking companies frequently share liability for failing to maintain vehicles properly, pushing drivers to skip safety checks, or hiring unqualified operators.
- Maintenance providers who performed substandard work on braking systems can also be held accountable.
- In cases involving defective equipment, manufacturers of brakes, hitches, or coupling devices may face product liability claims.
- Cargo loading companies might be responsible if improper loading contributed to brake failure or trailer instability.
A Wisconsin truck accident lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation into the collision to determine who exactly is at fault. This may involve reviewing driver logbooks and employment records, obtaining maintenance and inspection histories, analyzing black box data from the truck, examining the wreckage for mechanical defects, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.
Common Injuries in Wisconsin Runaway Truck or Trailer Accidents
The injuries sustained in runaway truck accidents tend to be severe due to the violent nature of these collisions. Survivors often face lengthy recoveries, permanent disabilities, and lasting emotional trauma.
Victims commonly suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Multiple bone fractures and crush injuries
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Severe burns if fires result from the collision
- Wrongful death
Get Help with Your Wisconsin Truck Accident Claim
A runaway truck or trailer rarely happens without warning signs that someone chose to ignore. Whether your accident was caused by worn brake systems, improperly secured hitches, or drivers pushed past the point of safe operation, Cannon & Dunphy S.C. will work to hold the responsible parties accountable. We have the resources and determination to pursue every liable person or entity, no matter how complex the chain of responsibility becomes. Contact us at (262) 288-2471 to begin building your case with a Wisconsin truck accident attorney.