Truck accidents are often caused by driver negligence. However, they can also arise from poor maintenance. It can be challenging to prove that a truck accident was caused by a lack of maintenance. That said, it is in your best interest to contact our dedicated Westchester County Truck Accident Attorneys who can help you investigate the circumstances of the collision. Keep reading to learn who can be held liable for truck accidents brought on by maintenance issues. 

How often do maintenance issues lead to truck accidents?

According to a study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), vehicle failure caused 10% of truck accidents. That said, trucks experience mechanical issues after traveling certain distances to transport goods. This makes some maintenance issues unavoidable, however, they are entirely preventable if the right actions are taken to prevent serious accidents. However, when the appropriate parties responsible for inspecting and maintaining commercial vehicles fail to uphold their duties, it increases the likelihood of these issues leading to an accident.

Brake system failures are one of the most common causes of truck accidents. When the brakes are not functioning properly, the driver’s ability to stop the vehicle is diminished, resulting in high-impact collisions. Brake failure in any vehicle is dangerous. However, it is even more dangerous in 18-wheeler trucks because of their size and weight. When a truck accident arises due to brake failure, the results are typically catastrophic. Another common maintenance issue that can lead to serious truck accidents is tire problems. Commercial vehicles require an equal distribution of weight, therefore cargo must be loaded properly into trailers. If the cargo is loaded improperly and becomes too heavy on the tires, the tires can rupture. Blown-out tires are a common issue for truck drivers. If a tire bursts, the driver will lose control of the vehicle. If they do not have control over the vehicle it increases the chances of a collision.

Who can be held liable for damages?

The trucking company and the truck driver are both responsible for inspecting and maintaining commercial vehicles to ensure they are in good working condition. Trucking companies typically own these vehicles. Therefore, they must inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control. If they fail to service commercial vehicles regularly, they will be held liable for any accidents that occur as a direct result of their negligence. Similarly, truck drivers also have a responsibility to check their vehicles before and after every trip. Commercial vehicles are built with more parts than standard vehicles. Therefore, even minor issues can lead to serious issues which is why truck drivers must regularly examine their vehicles. If they fail to report a maintenance issue or discover a maintenance issue and drive despite these critical issues, they will be held liable for their negligence.

If you have been injured in a truck accident and you suspect that poor maintenance was the cause of the accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today. Our firm is prepared to work tirelessly to ensure you are justly compensated for your injuries.