Truck drivers and trucking companies are legally obligated to keep their vehicles in safe operating conditions. When they fail to do so, those injured due to their negligence are often entitled to compensation for any losses they have experienced. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by a lack of maintenance, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of our competent Manatee County Truck Accident Lawyers, who can help you hold responsible parties accountable for their careless actions. Please continue reading to learn how poor truck maintenance can cause accidents in Florida.
What Maintenance Issues Can Lead to Truck Accidents?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) has stringent standards for the operation of commercial vehicles. It requires that every motor carrier systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under its control. When the appropriate parties disregard these standards, poor maintenance can result in serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Trucks comprise several parts of machinery that must function properly to ensure safe operation. The following issues can arise from poor maintenance and cause serious accidents:
- Brake failure: Commercial trucks can weigh tens of thousands of pounds, requiring a robust braking system to control their momentum. When braking systems are not properly maintained, they can fail due to overuse and overheating. When braking systems malfunction, it can make it difficult for the truck to stop in time or at all, leading to devastating accidents. Brake failure is a leading cause of commercial vehicle accidents.
- Tire blowouts: Tires can suffer excessive wear and damage due to the extensive miles commercial vehicles travel. When tires are poorly maintained, it can lead to blowouts. Tire blowouts cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle.
- Steering system failure: A lack of maintenance can cause the steering system to malfunction, making it difficult or impossible for the driver to control the vehicle’s direction.
- Engine and transmission failure: Poor truck engine or transmission maintenance can result in sudden breakdowns, which can be hazardous, especially on interstates.
- Defective lights: Improperly maintained lighting systems can result in visibility issues, especially at night or in inclement weather conditions. If the tail, brake, or headlights are inoperative, the truck can be less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a collision.
These are only some of the many mechanical issues that can arise due to poor maintenance and contribute to the cause of devastating truck accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by a lack of maintenance, please don’t hesitate to contact Becker & Lindauer, LLC, who can help you fight for the full and fair compensation to which you may be entitled.
