Not All Truck Accidents are Due to Driver Error
Many of the accidents involving semi-trucks on our Northern California highways are the result of driver error – error on either the part of the truck driver or that of the other involved vehicle. A significant number of truck accidents are caused by defective equipment installed on the commercial truck. The various parts that could fail and cause an accident range from lights to fuel tanks. In this article, we discuss some of the most common examples of defective truck equipment that may cause roadway accidents.
Fuel Tank
Some large trucks continue to have fuel tanks on the side, despite the danger of placing stored fuel in that area. If the side tank gets struck in a collision, an explosion or fire could occur.
Braking Systems
As with any other vehicle, properly functioning brakes are vitally important. Most large trucks have air brake systems that create and hold compressed air that sends pressure to the brakes, helping them stop the large vehicle more quickly. Properly functioning air brakes are crucial in an emergency situation in order to prevent a collision.
Brakes can become defective through poor or improper maintenance. There is also the potential for defects to occur during the manufacturing process. Regularly inspecting the brake systems can help identify problems. The following should be regularly inspected:
- Drum brakes – look for cracks
- Brake hoses
- Brake lines
Fluid leaks near the brake area or screeching sounds can be warning signs that the brake system needs to be looked at. If the braking system is improperly maintained or warning signals are ignored, the trucking company and driver could be liable if the equipment neglect causes an accident.
Lights
Proper lighting on a truck is important for drivers to see the road and motorists ahead of them. Long haul truckers often drive through the night, so functioning lights are especially important.
Strips of lighting installed along the side of the truck also help to increase the vehicle’s visibility to other motorists.
Underride Guards
Underride guards at the rear of the truck are installed to prevent passenger vehicles from traveling under the truck in the event of a rear collision. If the underride guard does not meet standards, a rear-end collision could result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities to the occupants of the passenger vehicle.
Tires
Tire blowouts are a common cause of truck accidents. When tires are worn or not inflated to manufacturer recommendations, blowouts can occur.
Another danger with improperly maintained or inflated truck tires is that the driver may have more difficulty maneuvering the truck.
Regular and careful inspection of the air pressure, tread depth, and tread separation can usually help to avoid such problems. Tires should also be inspected for cuts and cracks.
Watch the YouTube video with instructions on checking tire pressure and inflating tires on a big rig.
Steering System
The steering system of a truck controls the direction in which the vehicle travels. Defects can occur within the ball joints, steering gear, power steering pump, hydraulic rods, or tie rods. If a failure within the steering system occurs, the driver may be unable to control the vehicle and thus unable to avoid a collision.
Windshield Wipers
If windshield wipers are not in correct working order, they could become unable to clear the windshield of rain, debris, or other visual obstructions. The decreased visibility could cause an accident, especially in heavy rain or other inclement weather conditions.
Modesto Truck Accident Lawyer
Hello, and thanks for stopping by. I’m Ed Smith, a truck accident lawyer in Modesto, California. Whether a truck accident is caused by driver error or an equipment defect or malfunction, the aftermath can be devastating. A passenger vehicle is at a distinct disadvantage when it collides with a semi-truck. Often the occupants of the smaller vehicle suffer severe, sometimes even fatal injuries. If your life has been affected by injuries caused by a big rig accident, the injury lawyers at my firm can help. We can offer free and friendly advice, and if appropriate, schedule a no-obligation consultation. Call us at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/wheel-mature-truck-breakdown-4818622/
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