Automobile Trailer-Towing Injury Accidents

Taking time off for a vacation is one of the best rewards for hard work. Whether it’s a week or two away, these breaks are highly valued. While many people fly to their destinations, countless others choose to drive the family car. In Maryland, working individuals often pack up their families for these much-needed road trips.

The classic family vacation, often shown in movies with a mix of fun and stress, remains a staple of American life. For adventurous families, a standard sedan or minivan might not be enough. This often leads to hitching a pop-up camper or a large RV-style trailer to an SUV. Regardless of the setup, the Baltimore auto accident attorney at Summit Injury Group knows that hauling a trailer adds significant risks to the road.

The Risks of Towing During Family Vacations

It is a sad reality that towing-related accidents occur annually, causing injuries and fatalities during what should be happy family outings. Traffic safety experts agree: adding a trailer to a passenger vehicle increases the chance of an accident, whether you are crossing the state or just driving across town.

There are many reasons why towing a trailer raises the risk of a highway collision. A Baltimore car accident lawyer often sees cases involving:

• Limited Visibility: Large trailers block the rear view, creating blind spots even with mirror extenders. This makes changing lanes and backing up dangerous.
• Reduced Maneuverability: Trailers make it harder to navigate tight turns, especially in city traffic or construction zones.
• Handling Issues: Adding thousands of pounds changes how a vehicle brakes and handles, making it harder to stop quickly or control the vehicle at high speeds.

Common Causes of Trailer Accidents

Drivers unfamiliar with how a heavy trailer affects their vehicle can be caught off guard. Sudden moves, like swerving to avoid another car, can cause a “jackknife” situation where the trailer folds in on the vehicle. Even putting too much strain on a car can lead to a breakdown, leaving the family stranded on the side of the road—a dangerous place to be.

Towing accidents often result in significant property damage and serious injuries. Police agencies report that safety violations are found in about half of all stops involving a car pulling a trailer. Drivers must be extra cautious when sharing the road with these vehicles.

According to statistics from the last 25 years:

• Nearly 500,000 people have been injured in towing-related crashes across the U.S.
• More than 700,000 tow vehicles, campers, and boats have been totaled in traffic accidents.

If you have been hurt in such an incident, consulting a Baltimore auto accident attorney is a crucial step toward understanding your rights.

The Danger of Inexperience

Even well-prepared drivers can face risky situations. These dangers affect not only the people in the towing vehicle but also other drivers on the road. Whether towing a boat, a utility trailer, a horse trailer, or a fifth-wheel RV, unexpected issues like a blown tire or a loose hitch can trigger a serious crash.

Safety advocates and police officers often point to driver inexperience as the leading factor in towing accidents. Hooking up a trailer might seem easy, but handling it during an emergency requires skill. When problems arise, an unprepared driver may not know how to regain control, leading to tragedy. A Baltimore car accident lawyer at Summit Injury Group investigates these cases fully to determine fault.

Understanding Trailer Sway

One of the most terrifying events on the highway is “trailer sway.” This happens when a trailer begins to fishtail uncontrollably behind the towing vehicle.

• It can happen to any size vehicle or trailer.
• It is especially dangerous at high speeds.
• It is a primary reason why many drivers stop towing recreationally.

Trailer sway can be caused by wind, passing trucks, or improper weight distribution. Once it starts, it can be very difficult to stop without causing a wreck.

Seeking Legal Help After a Towing Accident

Whether a crash is caused by trailer sway, a tire blowout, or a road hazard, victims deserve support. If you have been seriously injured, you should speak with a qualified personal injury professional. At Summit Injury Group, our team helps guide clients through the complex process of filing an injury claim.

We prepare every case with the intention of going to trial. In our experience as a Baltimore auto accident attorney, thorough preparation often leads to successful out-of-court settlements. This approach can reduce the emotional stress and mental strain on our clients, allowing them to focus on recovery.

Contact Summit Injury Group Today

The attorneys at Summit Injury Group are ready to assist with your personal injury claim. We understand how easily a responsible person can become the victim of an unpredictable highway wreck. Regardless of the cause, our legal staff can help you and your family understand your options.

We are skilled in negotiating with insurance carriers to ensure coverage for:

• Past, present, and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

If you need a Baltimore car accident lawyer, contact us today at (412) 387-6901 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.