Truck accidents can be caused by a wide variety of issues, including improper truck maintenance. Trucks are required to be in good working ordering prior to going out on the road. Regular inspections and maintenance of large commercial trucks is federally mandated. This includes semi trucks, 18-wheelers, big rigs and all other large commercial vehicles.
With the amount of time and distance a truck typically travels, the accumulating wear and tear on a vehicle can seriously compromise its safety. This is why it is so critical for trucking companies and truck drivers to follow the regulations for diligent truck maintenance. When any of these rules have been violated and an accident occurs because of improper or inadequate maintenance, catastrophic injuries or deaths can result.
Lack of Inspection, Maintenance and Repairs Can Lead to Serious or Even Fatal Accidents
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has detailed guidelines that trucking companies and truck drivers are required to comply with. These FMCSA regulations exist as a means to prevent commercial vehicle-related injuries and fatalities. One key component of the guidelines is that drivers need to ensure that their trucks are in safe operating condition each day. Reports need to be completed as to whether any damage, defects or deficiencies are present within certain parts and accessories. The goal is to keep unsafe vehicles off our nation’s highways.
Sadly, many trucking companies may deliberately disregard or not keep up with the proper inspection, maintenance and repair of their vehicles because it can be expensive and time consuming. Also, keeping their vehicles off the road for maintenance issues could lead to decreased productivity and less profits. Therefore, owners and truck drivers attempt to cut corners and forego inspecting their vehicles, falsify their records and drive their potentially dangerous trucks for hundreds or thousands of miles. Innocent people are placed at risk for becoming a victim of a serious or fatal trucking accident.
Improper Truck Maintenance Issues
Some common examples of improper maintenance issues that cause trucking accidents include:
- Tire blowouts or tread separation
- Brake failure
- Insufficient under-ride prevention devices
- Steering malfunctions
- Suspension issues
- Fuel system leaks
- Trailer disconnections
- Broken headlights or safety lights
- Worn windshield wipers
- Defroster malfunction
- Exhaust fumes affecting a driver
- Missing reflectors
Seek Legal Representation from a Qualified Delaware Truck Accident Lawyer
If you are injured in a trucking accident, it is imperative to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure your rights are fully protected. Truck accident litigation can be quite complex and dealing with the trucking and insurance companies can be challenging. Our Delaware truck accident lawyers have a deep understanding of the FMCSA regulations and how to determine if any safety violations were committed. In addition, we have the necessary resources to perform a thorough truck accident investigation in order to determine if there are multiple liable parties who should be held accountable for your injuries and other damages.
Delaware Truck Accident Law Firm of Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP: Dedicated to Obtaining Justice and Compensation for Truck Accident Victims in Pennsylvania and Delaware
If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident caused by improper truck maintenance or any other type of truck driver negligence, contact the Law Offices of Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP as soon as possible to discuss what legal options are available to you. Let our skilled team of Delaware trucking lawyers put their decades of experience to work for you and fight to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve. We represent truck accident victims in Delaware and Pennsylvania. Call us today at (302) 295-5050 or toll free at (800) 300-0909 to schedule a free consultation or you may contact us by submitting an online inquiry.