People with pick-up trucks and SUVs have the option to attach trailer hitches to their vehicles to tow heavy cargo. As enormous amounts of pressure are put on trailer hitches, these connectors must be strong and reliable in order to safely tow cargo without fear of accidental disconnection.

If a defect with a hitch’s connector parts causes the trailer hitch to loosen or break off, the results can be devastating. The cargo may become loose on the road, striking other vehicles or prompting other drivers to take potentially dangerous evasive maneuvers. These defective trailer hitch accidents can lead to serious injuries, but the person or party at fault for the faulty trailer hitch may be obligated to cover victims’ medical bills, auto repair costs, and other damages.

Dangerous Hitch Defects

Trailer hitches should be able to maintain a strong connection between motor vehicles and trailers. Any unexpected disconnection due to a mechanical failure may be considered the responsibility of that hitch’s manufacturer, making it legally accountable for accidents caused by these defects. The following are common trailer hitch defects:

• A flawed design with the locking device that may cause the hitch to disengage
• Support chains that fail to secure the trailer when the hitch accidentally disengages
• The hitch is made with substandard materials, causing breakages during use
• The electrical components of the connection system fail, causing the driver to lose the use of the trailer’s blinkers and brake lights

Whether your auto accident was the result of an owner’s failure to properly connect his or her trailer or the manufacturer’s failure to create a safe, reliable product, you may be entitled to financial compensation if you have been hurt due to a trailer hitch flaw.

A Product Liability Matter

If a trailer hitch doesn’t work as it should, safely and as promised, and you are injured because of its faulty design, you may have a product liability case.

Product liability occurs when a product is defective and causes someone harm, making the manufacturer liable due to negligence. Victims will often turn to legal professionals to help them navigate their quest for justice.

If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a dysfunctional trailer hitch, we may be able to help you get compensation for the following:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Lost properly
• Pain and suffering

You don’t have to take on the manufacturing company on your own. Let us help you get the damages you’re entitled to.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident where a defective trailer hitch was involved, there may be legal options available to fight for financial compensation for related treatment and injury expenses. For more information about how to prepare your case, contact a lawyer from Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., by calling (303) 647-1999 today.