Thousands of truck accidents occur each year due to mechanical failures.  Brake and tire failures account for the largest percentage of such crashes.  In one study published by the Department of Transportation (DOT), it was revealed that 30% of all commercial truck accidents involved brake related issues, most often brake failures or brakes that were out of adjustment.

Anyone who has been injured in a truck accident should learn the common causes of brake and tire failure so that they can determine whether either mechanical issue played a role in the accident.  An experienced truck accident attorney will provide a more accurate assessment of fault after thoroughly assessing your crash.

Who is Liable for Defective Brakes?

When the brakes on a truck cause an accident, the liability can be placed on several different parties.  Sometimes, more than one party can be deemed responsible.  Possible liable parties include:

  • The party responsible for maintenance of the brakes, most often the trucking company or the owner-operator
  • The manufacturer of the brakes
  • The truck driver
  • The company that loaded the truck

When a serious accident occurs involving defective brakes, the trucking, leasing, and hauling companies will often argue among themselves as to whose insurance will compensate the victim.

The Brake Manufacturer

Commercial truck brakes are subject to stringent federal regulations.  The brakes must have a certain braking force, be able to go from 20 mph to a complete stop at a certain rate, and meet automatic brake adjustment system requirements.

If the brakes on the truck that caused your accident do not comply with federal regulations, you could have a claim against the manufacturer.  Your claim could be based on the premise that the brakes were improperly designed or that they were initially properly designed but a defect occurred during manufacturing.

Trucking Companies and the Driver

Sometimes trucking companies or truck drivers can be responsible for brake failures. Truck companies are required to complete routine maintenance and keep a log of inspections.  If the trucking company fails to maintain a truck’s brakes, the brakes can fail.  Truckers or trucking companies also occasionally depower the front brakes in order to save wear and tear on the brakes.  This dangerous practice can lead to accidents as it forces the truck to rely solely on the trailer brakes.

Tire Failures That Cause Truck Accidents

When tires fail on a commercial truck, major accidents can ensue.  Truck tires fail due to defects with the tire or the failure of the truck driver and trucking company to inspect and maintain the brakes.  If you are in an accident caused by a blown truck tire, you could be able to receive compensation from the trucking company, truck driver, or tire manufacturer.

Barrett Law PLLC: Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys Obtaining You Justice

Mechanical failures such as brake and tire failure are a leading cause of truck crashes.  All too often, brake and tire failures can be attributed to negligence on the part of the trucking company, truck driver, or part manufacturer.  The Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC have fought for the recovery of truck accident victims for over 75 years.  We offer legal services of dedication and excellence.  Our years of experience in the industry provides us with an in depth knowledge of the distinct area of truck accident law and the many federal regulations that abound in this field.  If the negligence of the truck driver, trucking company, or manufacturer caused your accident, we will fight to see that you recover for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.  To schedule your free initial consultation, call Barrett Law PLLC today at 1 (800) 707-9577.