There are many potential causes of truck accidents, but one thing that companies can try to avoid is a crash due to mechanical failure. When vehicles are properly cared for, these accidents are preventable and less likely to be a danger to anyone sharing the road with them. Poor truck maintenance can contribute to an accident, and the right parties need to be held accountable when that happens. If you were hurt in a crash with a truck, a Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyer from our firm can help you build a case and sue for compensation.
How Does Poor Truck Maintenance Contribute to Collisions?
Poor truck maintenance can lead to crashes in a few different ways. There could be problems with:
Tires
When tires are not properly inflated, it can lead to blowouts. This occurs when the friction of an under- or over-inflated tire causes it to rapidly expand, bursting the rubber. The truck driver may subsequently lose control of the vehicle, resulting in a collision. Additionally, tires must be in compliance with federally mandated tread depth.
Brakes
In the event that brakes are not properly inspected or maintained, they may fail. This is often due to a brake line snapping, leaks, or out-of-adjustment lines. As a result, a truck driver may rear-end another vehicle or jackknife. This occurs when the trailer creates a V-shape with the cab of the truck, which can result in a number of injuries as the trailer is positioned across multiple lanes of traffic.
Steering and Suspension
Any wear or damage to the steering console or suspension on a truck can cause loss of control over the vehicle. This can result in lane departure and subsequent collisions with other vehicles on the road.
Coupling
If a trailer is not properly coupled to the cab, it can separate. This means the trailer of the truck detaches from the cab, which can result in devastating injuries. Coupling issues can also result in the shift of a cargo load, which can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle.
It’s necessary to note that heavy trucks, when in good condition, can require up to the length of two football fields to stop. As such, defects can increase the stopping distance, which, in turn, increases the risk of a serious collision.
What Does Federal Law Require in Regards to Maintenance?
As a fully-loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, the federal government has implemented a number of regulations that logistics companies must enforce and adhere to as a means of limiting the risk of a collision.
Carrier Duties
- Conduct routine inspections of vehicles
- Repair any defective, worn, or otherwise damaged parts
- Keep detailed records of conducted inspections
Driver Duties
- Conduct pre-trip inspection
- Note any defects
- Review previous reports to ensure repairs have been made
Who Faces Liability When Poor Truck Maintenance Causes a Crash?
When a truck accident occurs due to maintenance or mechanical issues, it’s critical to understand who can face liability. In most instances, the motor carrier will face liability, as it is the company’s responsibility to ensure that no unsafe vehicles are in service. However, other parties can also face liability:
- Drivers who ignore issues or skip pre-trip inspections
- Repair contractors in the event that there are missed or incorrect repairs
- Parts manufacturers who issue defective parts
You should note that in the event you are injured in a truck accident in D.C., you will generally only have three years under the statute of limitations to file a claim against the negligent party.
Other Frequent Causes of Truck Collisions
While maintenance issues are among the most common causes of accidents involving semi-trucks, you’ll find the following can also lead to collisions:
- Disregarding the hours of service regulations
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Visibility issues
- Improperly loaded cargo
What To Do After a Crash Involving a Truck
After a collision involving a tractor-trailer in the D.C. area, it’s important to take steps immediately following a collision to best protect yourself:
- Seek immediate medical attention for injuries
- Take photos and videos of the damage to both vehicles
- Take photos and videos of any visible injuries you have suffered
- Begin a journal to document your pain and limitations from the injuries you’ve suffered
- Do not provide recorded statements without consulting an attorney
What Evidence Can Be Used in a Truck Accident Case?
To build a case, you need evidence. In addition to the evidence collected at the scene of the collision, your lawyer can use things like:
- Driver inspection records and reports
- Truck maintenance records
- Repair certifications
- Roadside inspection and out-of-service reports
- Post-accident vehicle inspection records
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports on this trucking company
- Testimony from accident reconstruction experts
Schedule Your Consultation
If you have been injured in a preventable collision caused by poor truck maintenance in or around the D.C. area, working with an experienced attorney with Trombly & Singer, PLLC is in your best interest. Our firm understands the devastation that an accident involving a semi-truck can cause, which is why we will do everything possible to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm today to learn more.