The Role of Improper Maintenance in Truck Accidents
When an 18-wheeler crashes, the consequences are often catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries, fatalities, and extensive property damage. While driver error and road conditions are frequently blamed, a less obvious but equally dangerous cause is improper truck maintenance.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the vital role maintenance plays in commercial trucking safety, how neglect can lead to devastating accidents, and why proving improper maintenance is a key component of many truck accident lawsuits.
Why Truck Maintenance Matters
Large commercial trucks log tens of thousands of miles every year. Their massive size and weight—often exceeding 80,000 pounds—make them a significant threat when something goes wrong. That’s why federal regulations require routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure trucks remain roadworthy.
Common maintenance tasks include:
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Checking brakes and air pressure systems
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Inspecting tires for wear, punctures, or imbalance
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Ensuring the proper functioning of lights and reflectors
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Testing steering and suspension systems
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Examining coupling devices between the tractor and trailer
When these systems fail due to neglect, the truck becomes a hazard not only to the driver but to everyone else on the road.
Common Types of Maintenance Failures That Lead to Accidents
1. Brake System Failure
According to the FMCSA, brake problems contribute to nearly 30% of all truck accidents. This often results from worn brake pads, leaking air brake systems, or failure to regularly inspect and replace critical components.
2. Tire Blowouts
Tires underinflated, overinflated, or worn past legal tread limits are ticking time bombs. A blowout at highway speeds can cause the driver to lose control, jackknife, or swerve into other vehicles.
3. Lighting and Signal Malfunctions
Non-functioning brake lights, turn signals, or reflectors increase the risk of rear-end collisions, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.
4. Steering and Suspension Issues
Faulty suspension or steering systems can cause the truck to drift between lanes or fail to respond to the driver’s commands, leading to serious accidents.
5. Trailer Coupling Failures
If the mechanism connecting the trailer to the cab is not properly maintained, the trailer can detach while in motion—a hazardous scenario for anyone behind the truck.
Federal Truck Maintenance Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates routine maintenance under 49 CFR Part 396. Key requirements include:
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Daily pre-trip inspections by the driver
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Scheduled maintenance programs for each commercial vehicle
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Detailed maintenance records kept for at least one year
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Immediate repairs for any safety-related defects
Failure to comply can result in both civil penalties and liability in personal injury lawsuits when accidents occur.
Who Is Responsible for Truck Maintenance?
One of the complex aspects of truck accident litigation is determining who was responsible for maintaining the vehicle. Potential liable parties include:
The Trucking Company
In most cases, the motor carrier is responsible for ensuring its fleet is properly maintained. If a company cuts corners to save money or fails to enforce inspection protocols, it can be held liable.
Third-Party Maintenance Providers
Some trucking companies outsource maintenance to external vendors. If a shop failed to properly inspect or repair a vehicle component, it may share in the liability.
The Truck Driver
Drivers are required to conduct daily inspections and report any defects or issues. If a driver knowingly operates an unsafe vehicle, they may be partially liable.
Proving Improper Maintenance in a Truck Accident Case
Uncovering maintenance failures requires a detailed investigation and often involves working with accident reconstructionists and vehicle experts. Key pieces of evidence include:
Maintenance Logs
Trucking companies are legally required to maintain logs of inspections, repairs, and parts replacement. Inconsistent or missing records can suggest negligence.
Black Box Data
Most commercial trucks are equipped with event data recorders (EDRs) that capture information on vehicle speed, braking, and system alerts before a crash.
Inspection Reports
If the truck recently passed a Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection or failed one, this can help determine whether safety procedures were followed.
Witness Testimony
Testimony from mechanics, maintenance supervisors, or the truck driver can help shed light on whether proper upkeep was performed.
Legal Recourse for Victims of Improperly Maintained Trucks
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident caused by poor maintenance, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses (past and future)
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Lost income and reduced earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
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Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed in the crash)
A qualified truck accident attorney can help identify all liable parties, build a strong case using maintenance records and expert analysis, and pursue full and fair compensation through settlement or trial.
How Malone Legal Group Can Help:
Malone Legal Group is a reputable truck accident law firm in Lubbock, TX, with a team of experienced Lubbock truck accident attorneys specializing in truck accident cases. Here’s how they can assist you:
- Case Evaluation: The attorneys at Malone Legal Group can review the details of your accident and assess the strength of your case. They will provide an honest and professional evaluation of your potential claim.
- Legal Expertise: With their in-depth knowledge of Texas truck accident injury lawyers, Malone Legal Group’s attorneys can build a strong case on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected.
- Investigation: The firm will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to establish liability and causation.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Whether through negotiation with insurance companies or taking your case to court, Malone Legal Group will tirelessly advocate for your rights to secure the compensation you deserve.
- Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Malone Legal Group can provide you with peace of mind by handling all legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery
