There are certain issues that are commonly associated with large trucks that simply do not affect passenger vehicles as often, such as mechanical errors, overloaded cargo, and more.
Commercial trucks simply are not the same as their smaller counterparts.
They are more dangerous, more complex, and more difficult to operate. It, therefore, is not surprising to learn that these trucks also have different failures that are common to them. In the Trucks Involved in Fatal Accidents Factbook, it was stated that an average of over 5,000 trucks are involved in a fatal crash every single year—remaining fairly stable from year to year.
In an effort to look into the relationship between mechanical failures and the risk for accidents, the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute conducted a study. What did they find? Almost 55% had at least one mechanical violation. A staggering 30% had a condition that was considered to be out-of-service had it been caught early enough.
The biggest violations found dealt with the brakes and lighting systems.
In fact, according to the Department of Transportation, almost 30% of all accidents had to do with brake failure. This means that they somehow did not meet the federal regulations on braking systems (they did not give the proper braking force, did not decelerate at a rate proportionate to the truck's size, or did not meet the requirements regarding automatic brake adjustment systems). Brake failures include incidents of negligence from both manufacturers and designers.
Brakes are one of the most critical components on a big rig—and when they stop working, the results can be disastrous. If you were injured in an accident involving brake failure, we can help.
Learn MoreAnother common issue big rigs often encounter include tire troubles. With so much riding on them, it is highly important that tires are always performing up to par. If there are flaws in design, if they are not maintained properly, or if they are not inspected, they could be the cause of tire blowouts and serious accidents. Tire problems can often be attributed to negligence.
Your accident may have been due to manufacturer, mechanic, or truck driver negligence. Our firm can review your case and help you determine the specific causes involved and the parties that may be liable. With years of legal experience and billions of dollars recovered for injury victims, the team at Arnold & Itkin knows how to help.
Let our truck accident attorneys provide the counsel and guidance you need during this trying time! Call us now or fill out a free case evaluation form so that we can review your accident.