Truck Accidents Caused by Equipment Failure

18-wheeler trucks are complex machines with many systems and parts that must work together to ensure safety on the road. When these systems fail, it can result in the truck driver losing control, leading to serious and sometimes fatal accidents. Equipment failures in large trucks can be caused by various factors, and when they occur, multiple parties may be held responsible. These could include the manufacturers of the faulty equipment, mechanics who failed to properly install or repair the equipment, or trucking companies and drivers who neglected necessary inspections and maintenance.

Identifying the root cause of a truck accident involving equipment failure can be challenging. Victims often find it difficult to pinpoint who is to blame when a truck’s equipment malfunctions. This is why it is essential to have a knowledgeable truck accident attorney who understands how to investigate these incidents and hold the responsible parties accountable. At Eric Ramos Law, PLLC, we are experienced in handling truck accident cases involving equipment failures. Our team is dedicated to advocating for victims’ rights and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Common Equipment Failures Leading to Truck Accidents

 There are several types of equipment failures that can cause truck accidents:

1. Tires: Tires on commercial trucks endure a lot of wear and tear due to the long distances they travel. If tires are not inspected regularly and replaced when worn out, they may blow out while the truck is moving. A blowout can cause the driver to lose control, potentially leading to serious collisions.

2. Brakes: Most large trucks use air brake systems that must be in good working order to stop safely. Problems such as leaks in the air lines or malfunctioning components can reduce braking effectiveness or cause brakes to fail completely, resulting in runaway trucks that can’t stop in time to avoid accidents.

3. Electrical Systems: Electrical failures can impact a truck’s lighting, making it less visible to other drivers, especially at night or in poor weather. These failures can also disrupt other critical systems, leading to a loss of vehicle control and increasing the likelihood of an accident.

4. Engines: Engine problems, such as coolant or oil leaks, can cause overheating and even fires. Such issues can lead to loss of control over the truck, putting other vehicles on the road at risk.

5. Steering Systems: Malfunctions in the steering system can prevent a truck driver from controlling the direction of the vehicle. Any loss of steering control can lead to accidents, particularly in high-speed or high-traffic situations.

6. Trailer Couplings: The components that connect the truck’s cab to its trailer must be in top condition to prevent the trailer from detaching. If these parts fail, the trailer could come loose, blocking roads and causing multi-vehicle accidents.

7. Cargo Securement Systems: Properly securing cargo is vital for safe truck operation. If straps, chains, or other securing devices break or fail, cargo may fall off the truck, leading to accidents either by striking other vehicles or by creating dangerous obstacles on the roadway.