18-Wheelers and Hitch Failure Accidents
Vehicle hitches are very convenient. They make it possible for people to tow storage units, small trailers, and boats. Hitches on 18-wheelers and other commercial vehicles are even more important, as they allow a trailer full of cargo to be attached to the truck’s cabin.
Many people do not give a second thought to these hitches, but they play a very important safety role on the roads. They must be used properly or they can become loose and cause very serious injuries, and even traffic fatalities. Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer explains more about hitch failure accidents.
Why are Hitch Failures So Dangerous?
A transport truck’s hitch is the piece of equipment that attaches the trailer to the cabin. This small piece of equipment is essential to making sure anyone around the truck is kept safe. When hitches are not used properly, the trailer can become detached and careen toward the vehicles behind it. Trailers used on transport trucks are incredibly large and being struck by one can result in catastrophic injury, and even death.
What Causes Hitch Failure Accidents?
Hitch failure accidents are more common than people think. They also have many common causes, which include:
- Speeding: The amount and type of cargo being carried will greatly affect the weight of the truck. Truck drivers must adjust their speed for the appropriate weight, otherwise the trailer can become detached.
- Steep declines: Steep declines are very difficult for truckers to navigate. As the truck picks up speed traveling downhill, truckers must apply their brakes. When not done properly, this can result in the trailer becoming detached from the hitch.
- Brake failure: There are many different sets of brakes on transport trucks, including those on the trailer. All of these different sets must work together in order to prevent a hitch failure accident.
- Defective equipment: There are many types of defective equipment that cause truck accidents. When part of a trailer, the actual hitch, or shocks are faulty, it can result in a hitch failure accident.
Common Injuries in Hitch Failure Accidents
Hitch failure accidents result in approximately 21,000 injuries each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Due to the immense size and weight of trailers on transport trucks, the majority of these are some of the most serious. The most common injuries include:
- Head and brain injuries such as concussions, contrecoup, and contusions
- Neck and back injuries, including paralysis
- Broken bones, which often require surgery to correct, and
- Deep lacerations, typically from broken windows and windshields
Regardless of the type of injury you suffered from a hitch failure accident, it is important to speak to a lawyer who can help you claim the compensation you are entitled to.
Call Our 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in San Antonio After a Hitch Failure
Hitch failure accidents cause some of the most catastrophic injuries. If you have been hurt, it is important that you speak to our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer at the Law Office of Israel Garcia. Our experienced attorney can prove who was liable for the failure and will hold them accountable for paying a full and fair settlement amount. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to request a free review of your case.
