Runaway Truck Accident Lawyers in Buffalo, NY 

Protecting Your Rights and Securing Justice 

Tractor-trailer accidents are among the most terrifying experiences a driver can face. Massive vehicles, often carrying heavy loads, become uncontrollable, endangering everyone on the road.  

The skilled Buffalo truck accident lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, can guide you through this difficult time. We know these accidents can change lives, and we’re well-equipped to tackle them and protect your rights.  

What Really Happens in a Runaway Truck Accident? 

This happens when a truck loses control, typically due to brake failure, improper loading, or driver error. The trailer becomes a speeding hazard, unable to stop or maneuver safely. This type of accidents often occur on steep inclines or highways, but they can happen anywhere. The root causes can include: 

• Driver errors: Research shows that 87% of truck-related crashes involve some form of driver error, including speeding, distracted driving, and failure to monitor equipment.  
• Brake system failures: Approximately 29% of large-truck crashes involve brake-related issues, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Poorly maintained or faulty brakes often mean drivers can’t stop in time, particularly on hilly roads like those near the Niagara Escarpment. 
• Overloaded cargo: Trucks carrying loads that exceed weight limits create greater momentum, making stopping far more difficult. The New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law outlines strict limits on truck weights to help prevent such risks. 

Understanding how these accidents happen is the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable. That’s where experienced Buffalo personal injury attorneys can make all the difference. 

Hit by a Massive Truck? Here’s What to Do Right Now 

After a truck accident, you’re likely dealing with shock and confusion. But the actions you take immediately can make a significant difference in your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. 

1. Call 911: Ensure police and medical help are on the scene. A police report will be essential for your case and serves as an official record of the accident, documenting critical details like the driver’s statements and road conditions. 
2. Seek medical attention: In 2020, the National Safety Council (NSC) reported over 107,000 injuries from large-truck crashes, highlighting how common severe injuries can be. See a doctor even if you feel fine. 
3. Document the scene: Use your phone to take photos or videos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any road signs or skid marks. These visual records can help prove how the accident occurred. 
4. Collect witness information: Witness statements can strengthen your case, especially if they saw the truck driver behaving recklessly before the crash. 
5. Avoid discussing fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with police or insurance companies to avoid unintentionally admitting liability. 
6. Contact an attorney: Legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure evidence, like black box data from the truck, is preserved. 

Taking these steps ensures your safety and preserves valuable evidence for your claim. 

Preventing Tragedy: The Role of Truck Maintenance 

Proper truck maintenance is critical to preventing accidents. During harsh winters, faulty brakes or worn tires can become deadly. Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy, which includes adhering to federal and state regulations. 

• Testing brake systems: The FMCSA mandates that commercial trucks undergo brake inspections at least once a year. These inspections can reveal issues like air pressure leaks or worn brake pads. 
• Ensuring proper tire pressure and tread: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that underinflated or bald tires contribute to over 50% of tire-related crashes. With icy roads, tire safety is even more critical. 
• Checking for secure cargo loads: Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transport, increasing the likelihood of tipping over or losing control. Federal laws require cargo to be secured using specific tie-down methods. 
• Inspecting hydraulic systems and steering mechanisms: Faulty steering or hydraulics can make trucks impossible to control, especially at highway speeds. 

When trucking companies cut corners or fail to follow maintenance protocols, they put everyone at risk. If you’ve been involved in a trailer accident, reviewing maintenance records can reveal whether negligence played a role. 

When Driver Negligence Turns Deadly 

Driver negligence is another common factor in truck collisions. This can include anything from speeding to distracted driving. Unfortunately, some drivers prioritize deadlines over safety, leading to reckless behavior. 

Examples of driver negligence include: 

• Failing to brake early on steep inclines: Streets like Porter Avenue can pose challenges for truckers unfamiliar with the area. Drivers who fail to brake early risk losing control. 
• Ignoring signs of equipment failure: Drivers are required to conduct pre-trip inspections. Skipping these checks can lead to undetected issues, such as low brake fluid or worn tires. 
• Driving while fatigued or impaired: The FMCSA has strict Hours of Service regulations to prevent drowsy driving, yet violations remain common. Fatigued drivers are responsible for thousands of truck crashes annually. 
• Not securing their load properly before hitting the road: Unsecured cargo can shift dangerously during transport, leading to rollovers or runaway situations. 

Drivers are legally obligated to operate their vehicles responsibly. When they don’t, they can be held liable for the damage they cause. Partnering with a knowledgeable attorney can help you identify driver negligence and build a compelling case. 

What Compensation Can Help You Reclaim Your Life? 

Collisions involving massive trailers often lead to severe injuries, significant property damage, and emotional trauma. If you’ve been affected, you may be entitled to compensation to help rebuild your life. 

Compensation categories typically include: 

• Medical expenses: These can include emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care. A study by the FMCSA found that the average cost of truck crash-related injuries exceeds $200,000. 
• Lost wages: Reimbursement for time missed at work or reduced earning capacity. This includes wages lost due to temporary disability or long-term inability to work. 
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact on your quality of life. Courts often factor in the severity of injuries and their lasting effects. 
• Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal items. If your car was totaled, you might also be entitled to fair market value compensation. 

With commercial truck accident legal help, you can pursue these forms of compensation and ensure those responsible are held accountable. 

Take Back Control: Contact Horn Wright, LLP 

If you or a loved one has been affected by a runaway truck accident in Buffalo, contact Horn Wright, LLP, today for your free consultation. 

Partner with one of the best law firms in America in your journey to justice. Our experienced truck accident lawyers are ready to provide the support and guidance you need to heal and move forward.