Brake Failure Truck Accident Lawyers in Buffalo, NY

Massive Collisions: How Skilled Local Attorneys Help You Rebuild

Trailer accidents caused by defective brakes are devastating. 

Whether you were driving along I-190 or passing through the busy downtown streets, you didn’t see the massive truck that has lost control coming—but now you’re left picking up the pieces. 

The Buffalo truck accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, can provide the guidance and support you need to make sense of the uncertainty. We understand the pain and confusion that follow a crash. 

We’ll handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on healing. With our team by your side, you’re not just another case—you’re our priority.

The Silent Killer: Why Brake Failure Wrecks Lives in Truck Crashes

A malfunctioning brake in a massive truck isn’t just a technical glitch; it’s a disaster waiting to happen. When an 80,000-pound vehicle loses its ability to stop, everything in its path becomes a target. 

Trucks require flawless braking systems, yet failures happen far too often. Whether it’s poor upkeep, defective parts, or driver negligence, faulty brakes turn the ordinary into a nightmare. These accidents don’t just cause damage—they destroy lives. 

According to a study by the FMCSA, brake problems are the most common vehicle associated factor in crashes involving large trucks. Understanding how and why brakes get damaged is the first step toward justice. 

If you’re considering commercial vehicle lawsuits, having the right Buffalo lawyers can make all the difference.

What’s Behind the Tragedy? The Leading Causes of Faulty Brakes

Every one of these trailer accidents has a root cause, and uncovering it is crucial for your claim. Here are the most common culprits:

• Neglected Maintenance: Federal regulations require trucking companies to inspect their vehicles regularly, yet violations are rampant. Reports show that brake-related violations are among the most cited safety issues during inspections.
• Faulty Parts: Manufacturers sometimes produce defective brake pads or systems, which can fail even when maintained.
• Overloading: Trucks traveling on major highways like I-90 often exceed legal weight limits, placing excess strain on their braking systems. Overloaded trucks can increase braking distances by up to 50%, significantly raising the risk of failure and contributing to fatal crashes. 
• Driver Mistakes: Some drivers ignore warning signs like squealing brakes, vibrations, or dashboard alerts. A driver’s failure to address these issues in time often turns a minor problem into a life-threatening one.

Each cause points to a party responsible for your pain—whether it’s the trucking company, driver, or manufacturer. Identifying them is the key to holding them accountable in brake system negligence claims.

What to Do When a Collision Turns Your World Upside Down

After a road mishap, it’s normal to feel lost and for every decision to feel overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to regain control:

1. Get Medical Help: Your health comes first, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding might not show symptoms immediately. Seeking medical attention and getting MRI also creates a record of your injuries for your case.
2. Call the Police: An official police report will document critical details about the accident, including who may have been at fault. In Buffalo, contacting the police is legally required for accidents involving injuries or significant property damage.
3. Document Everything: Photos, videos, and notes can preserve details you might forget later. Capture skid marks, road conditions, weather, and visible damage to all vehicles involved. Evidence from the scene can make or break your case.
4. Exchange Information: Get contact details from the driver and any witnesses. Include insurance information, license plate numbers, and even the name of the trucking company. Witness statements often play a crucial role in corroborating your story.
5. Stay Silent About Fault: Avoid saying anything that could be misinterpreted as admitting blame. Even an innocent “I’m sorry” can be twisted to suggest liability.
6. Consult an Attorney: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of success. Your lawyer can immediately begin preserving evidence, negotiating with insurers, and protecting your rights.

Who’s to Blame? The Legal Complexities of Faulty Brake Cases 

Crashes involving massive trucks aren’t straightforward. Unlike a regular car accident, these cases often involve multiple responsible parties: 

• The Trucking Company: A report by FMCSA attributed almost 30% of truck crashes to brake system issues. 
• The Driver: Drivers are legally required to conduct pre-trip inspections, including brake checks, under federal law. 

• The Manufacturer: Brake system recalls have become alarmingly frequent, highlighting the need for thorough quality control in manufacturing. 
• Maintenance Providers: Maintenance logs and inspection reports are often critical in proving negligence on the part of these providers. 

It’s not uncommon for these parties to point fingers at each other, leaving victims caught in the middle. That’s why you need legal representation from a skilled Buffalo personal injury attorney who understands these complex cases. 

What’s at Stake? The Compensation You Deserve

Crashes involving massive trucks leave more than just physical scars. They shatter your financial stability and emotional well-being. Here’s what you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical Bills: These include hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care. Catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage, can result in medical costs exceeding $1 million over a lifetime.
• Lost Earnings: Compensation for missed work, reduced earning capacity, or future lost wages due to disability. Many victims face months or even years of income loss after a severe accident.
• Property Damage: Covering repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other property damaged in the crash.
• Punitive Damages: Reserved for cases involving gross negligence, these damages punish the party responsible. In cases caused by intentional neglect, punitive damages may significantly increase your settlement.

Why Choose Horn Wright? Hire One of the Best Law Firms in America

When choosing legal representation, you need a team with proven results. 

Horn Wright, LLP, has been recognized as one of the best law firms in America, a distinction we hold with pride and responsibility. Our team has extensive experience handling complex commercial motor vehicle cases, ensuring you have the strongest possible advocate by your side.

If seeking justice after a road mishap has put your life on hold, we can help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with our truck accident lawyers. Take the first step toward reclaiming your future.