Like with any vehicle, the brakes and other parts of a large truck can become worn or broken if the truck is not properly maintained. Trucking companies must frequently and thoroughly inspect and maintain their vehicles to ensure that they are in good working order. It is the responsibility of the trucking company, any maintenance contractors, and the driver to make sure a truck is maintained. If any of these parties neglect proper truck maintenance, it can result in a serious accident.
Dangers of Improper Truck Maintenance
Trucking companies are in the business of making money, and it is not unusual for these companies to do the bare minimum to get by. In some cases, a company might cut corners to save money. As trucking companies work to meet their deliveries, they may neglect the proper maintenance of their vehicles. This can cause a very dangerous situation.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has standards that trucking companies must meet when maintaining their vehicles. Some common issues that can arise if vehicles are not properly maintained include:
- Brake Problems—typically, large trucks have air brake systems. If these systems are not regularly maintained, they can weaken or fail. A truck that is unable to stop will likely cause a catastrophic accident.
- Lights and Reflectors—when headlights are not properly maintained, they can become too dim for a driver to see what’s around them. In addition, missing or broken reflectors can make the truck difficult to see on a dark road.
- Faulty Fuel Systems—a fuel system that has been poorly repaired or not maintained can be leaky. Fuel leaks can lead to fires and other unsafe conditions.
- Worn Tires—when tires are not replaced as frequently as they should be, they can become dangerously worn. This can result in tread separation and tire failure. It can also lead to problems with a vehicle’s ability to brake.
- Windshields and Wipers—cracked windshields and broken windshield wipers can reduce a driver’s ability to see.
Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
It is not always clear when improper truck maintenance is the cause of an accident. That’s why a thorough investigation into the circumstances of a truck accident is necessary as soon as possible. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Bonina & Bonina. P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping the victims of truck accidents. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.