Just like any other type of vehicle, a commercial truck has to be maintained to remain in good operating condition. It is the job of the truck driver and the owner of the trucking company to ensure this type of maintenance is performed regularly. Over time, a truck will begin to show signs of wear, and without the proper maintenance, it can present a serious hazard when on the road.
Here you can learn about some of the most common types of trucking maintenance neglect and how this can result in an accident, causing serious injuries to others on the road.
Worn Out Brakes
While it is rare, if a big rig’s brakes don’t work properly, the result can be devastating. The fact is, large trucks already require more time to stop, which means if the brakes don’t work efficiently, the potential to cause serious injuries to individuals in traditional passenger vehicles is high. If you are injured in this type of accident, you should hire an attorney to determine if an improperly maintained braking system played a role in the accident. If it did, they can then determine who is at fault for this and who should be held liable.
Inadequately Maintained Tires
The tires on a commercial truck are the only part of the vehicle that actually touch the road. The longer the same tires are on a truck, the more wear they will experience. Driving on tires that are improperly inflated or worn can prohibit a truck driver from stopping quickly. It is imperative that truck drivers check their tires regularly. If they fail to do this, an accident may occur, causing serious injuries to other vehicles on the road.
Engine Issues
Another part of the truck that needs to be repaired and maintained frequently is the engine. If engine maintenance is not provided, it may lead to an array of issues. If a truck stalls when pulling into oncoming traffic, it may cause a crash, or worse. If it is proven that a truck has not had its engine properly maintained, there are several parties who could be to blame. Your personal injury attorney will help you figure out who is liable and therefore responsible for the injuries and damages you suffered.
Other Maintenance Issues
While vehicle maintenance is only one angle that should be examined whenever there is a trucking collision or accident, in addition to those above, maintenance issues can also arise for vehicle lighting, under-ride protection and hitches.
If you are ever involved in an accident with a big rig truck, the injuries you suffer may be severe. It is best to hire an attorney to help ensure your rights are protected. They can also review the facts of your case and help you recover a fair amount of compensation. With truck related accidents, there are several parties that may be responsible. An attorney has the ability and experience to determine if one or several parties or entities are to blame. They can also file a lawsuit on your behalf, to ensure you receive a fair amount of compensation.