Hitch Accidents & Runaway Trailer Accidents

Published September 12, 2025

When a trailer detaches on the road, the result can be chaos. These accidents are often catastrophic… and preventable. If you or a loved one was injured by a runaway trailer, we’re here to help you pursue answers, legal support, and the compensation that can make a real difference.

What Is a Runaway Trailer Accident?

A runaway trailer accident happens when a trailer becomes detached from the towing vehicle, often while traveling at high speed. This can cause the trailer to veer into traffic, collide with other vehicles, or strike structures and pedestrians.

Even partial detachment, where the trailer remains connected by safety chains, can cause the towing vehicle to jackknife or lose control. On Texas roads, with high traffic volumes and heavy commercial hauling, these accidents can cause catastrophic chain-reaction crashes.

Determining why the trailer came loose is key to a successful legal case. Our team will do that and more. If you’ve been injured in a runaway trailer or hitch failure accident, call 888-298-4070 or contact us online for a free case evaluation today.

How Do These Accidents Happen?

Most runaway trailer accidents are preventable. But here are some of the common causes:

Improper Hitching
Human error is a major factor. Trailers may not be secured properly, safety chains can be misused, and brake systems may be ignored.
Faulty or Defective Hitch Components
A single weak link—like a cracked ball mount or faulty latch—can cause a catastrophic failure. Some aftermarket parts don’t meet safety standards and can snap under load.
Poor Installation or Maintenance
If a mechanic, trailer dealer, or rental company fails to properly install or inspect a hitch system, they may be held legally responsible. Loose bolts, unbalanced weights, or brake system failures are all red flags.
Overloading and Weight Distribution
Towing more than a system is rated for can lead to hitch failure. Unevenly packed cargo may cause fishtailing, instability, or axle damage.
Tire or Axle Failures
Worn-out tires, dry rot, or misaligned axles can cause a trailer to break free. A tire blowout at highway speeds may turn a routine trip into a disaster.
Road and Weather Conditions
Poorly maintained roads or sudden maneuvers in bad weather can unbalance even a well-secured trailer. Drivers are still expected to adjust to conditions, and failing to do so can be considered negligence.

Who Could Be Liable for a Runaway Trailer Crash?

Depending on the facts of your case, several parties may be held responsible:

The driver: If the hitch wasn’t secured properly or safety steps were ignored.
Rental companies or repair shops: For negligent installation or failure to inspect equipment.
Manufacturers or sellers: If defective hitch parts or trailers caused the crash.
Cargo loaders: If uneven or unsecured loads contributed to the accident.
Government entities: If poor road conditions were a contributing factor.

Serious Injuries We Commonly See

Runaway trailer crashes tend to be devastating, especially given the size and speed of the equipment involved. Common injuries include traumatic brain injury, spinal damage, crushed limbs, severe lacerations, and internal organ trauma. Because the impact is so violent, victims often face extensive recovery or permanent disability.

Our team works to secure full compensation not only for medical expenses, but also for lost wages, future care needs, pain and suffering, and other long-term impacts. Acting quickly helps us protect critical evidence, like the hitch itself, maintenance records, or faulty components.

Who’s at Fault Under Texas Law?

Drivers

Texas law requires drivers towing trailers to act with reasonable care. If a driver knew—or should have known—that something was wrong with the hitch or load and failed to fix it, they can be found negligent.

Rental Companies

Companies that rent trailers or towing vehicles must provide safe equipment and clear instructions. If they fail to do so, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.

Employers

When an employee causes a hitch-related crash while working, their employer can be held responsible. This is especially important in commercial trucking and construction cases.

Product Manufacturers

Injured victims may have claims against hitch or trailer manufacturers under Texas product liability laws. Claims may involve defective design, manufacturing errors, or failure to warn of dangers. Courts will often look at safety records, warning labels, and industry standards to determine fault.

Will Insurance Cover the Crash?

Insurance issues can get complicated quickly in these cases. Personal auto insurance may exclude trailer coverage, especially for rental or commercial use. Commercial policies may apply, but often have limits that don’t cover catastrophic injuries. Product liability insurance held by manufacturers may come into play. Rental companies may offer only limited protection. Understanding all available options is crucial for maximum recovery.

You Have Limited Time to Act

In Texas, most personal injury and wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the accident. Early action can also help:

Preserve physical evidence (like the trailer or hitch)
Notify manufacturers or insurers to avoid document loss
Allow inspections by engineers or crash specialists

Missing these early steps could jeopardize your entire case.

Why Trust Guss Injury Lawyers?

At Trust Guss Injury Lawyers, we’ve spent more than 30 years standing up for injured people, not corporations. Founded in Houston with a nationwide reach, our firm has grown to over 100 legal professionals committed to one mission: putting clients first.

With a record of winning even the toughest cases, we’re proud to offer around-the-clock support, immediate access to medical care with little to no upfront cost, and a true “Client First” mentality. You won’t pay unless we recover compensation on your behalf. We’re here to fight for what matters most: your recovery, your future, and your peace of mind.

Injured by a Runaway Trailer or Hitch Failure?

Let Us Fight for What You Deserve

Don’t let an insurance company downplay your injuries or blame you for their client’s negligence. Let Trust Guss Injury Lawyers go to work for you. Call or contact us 24/7. We’re ready when you are.

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