Commercial trucks play a vital role in the economy, moving goods across the country to meet consumer demands. Trucking companies must perform regular inspections and thorough maintenance on their vehicles to ensure road safety. Unfortunately, when these responsibilities are neglected, the consequences can be devastating.
Truck Maintenance and FMCSA Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets stringent guidelines for truck maintenance to protect public safety. These regulations, found in 49 CFR Part 396, require commercial motor vehicle operators and trucking companies to:
- Conduct Regular Inspections: Drivers must perform daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections to identify potential safety issues. Any defects or deficiencies must be recorded and addressed.
- Adhere to Periodic Inspection Requirements: Trucks must undergo annual inspections by qualified professionals to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Maintain Detailed Records: Trucking companies must keep maintenance records, including repairs and inspections, for at least one year while the vehicle is in use and six months after it leaves their control.
Neglecting these requirements can result in mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and steering issues, leading to preventable accidents.
Common Truck Maintenance Failures That Lead to Accidents
The results can be catastrophic when trucking companies fail to meet their maintenance obligations. Common maintenance failures include:
- Brake System Failures: Faulty brakes are among the leading causes of truck accidents. FMCSA data shows brake-related issues contribute to over 29% of large truck crashes.
- Tire Blowouts: Improperly inflated or worn-out tires can cause blowouts, making the truck difficult to control.
- Steering or Suspension Issues: Poor handling due to steering or suspension problems increases the risk of rollover accidents.
- Lighting and Visibility Defects: Malfunctioning lights can make it difficult for other drivers to see a truck, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions.
Liability for Truck Accidents Caused by Negligent Maintenance
Determining liability in truck accidents caused by maintenance failures can be complex. The responsible parties may include:
- The Trucking Company: If the company failed to perform required maintenance or ignored inspection reports, they could be held accountable.
- Third-Party Maintenance Providers: The contractor may share liability if maintenance was outsourced and performed improperly.
- Parts Manufacturers: Defective parts can contribute to accidents, making manufacturers liable under product liability laws.
To establish liability, a thorough investigation is essential. This includes examining maintenance records, reviewing FMCSA compliance, and evaluating the quality of repairs. A skilled Louisville truck accident attorney can subpoena these records and work with experts to identify negligence.
Injuries and Damages Resulting from Poor Maintenance
Truck accidents caused by maintenance failures often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Burns, scarring, and amputations
Victims may pursue compensation for:
- Medical Costs: Emergency care, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses.
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery and diminished earning capacity for permanent injuries.
- Property Damage: Costs for vehicle repairs or replacement and other personal property damage.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
How an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Sam Aguiar Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases, especially those involving negligent maintenance. Our team conducts in-depth investigations to identify all liable parties and build a compelling case. With a proven track record in handling trucking injury claims, we fight to secure maximum compensation for our clients.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you hold negligent parties accountable.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Now
If you suspect negligent maintenance contributed to your truck accident, contact us today for a free evaluation and begin building your case for compensation. Call us or fill out our online form to get started. Together, we can help you recover and achieve justice.