Commercial trucks travel throughout the country for thousands of miles each year. As you might guess, this puts a lot of strain on their braking systems. The tremendous friction caused by stopping an over 80,000-pound truck wears brakes down, quickly. If these braking systems are not maintained and monitored, then this can lead to a serious collision. If you have been injured in a crash with a commercial truck because of a failed braking system, you do have legal options. Your best bet is to seek the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer who understands the complexities of these cases.
Failing Brakes
The majority of trucks on U.S roads have air brake systems. These can be highly complex but work perfectly well when properly maintained. In fact, a truck’s braking system failing is relatively rare. There are many precautions taken, and fail-safe mechanisms implemented to stop such events. However, a braking system failing isn’t unheard of. Especially if the systems haven’t been maintained, or is been overburdened. For example, many inexperienced drivers might ride their brakes for long periods when going downhill or suddenly stop at high speeds. This can cause the brakes to overheat. If a truck’s brakes are overburdened, the risk for malfunctions or failures increases.
Another issue could be a flaw in the design of the brakes. These usually happen for two reasons. The manufacturer attempted to cut corners to save costs, or they did not properly test the brakes.
Liability
Trucking companies are usually the ones held liable for accidents caused by brake failures. These companies are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their trucks. Inspecting each truck thoroughly, before it goes on the road is important for not only the truck driver’s safety but everyone else’s. When trucking companies fail their duty to ensure their trucks are safe, they put people’s lives in danger. When a crash occurs because a trucking company failed to take property steps to ensure safety, they can be held liable. In some cases, manufacturers can be held liable too. If the collision was due to a design flaw, both the trucking company and the brake manufacturer could be held liable for damages.
Hit by an 18-Wheeler?
At Villarreal and Begum, we know dealing with the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident can be stressful. That’s why we’re here to help you figure out what to do next. You need an experienced big rig accident lawyer to fight the liable party. Villarreal and Begum know exactly how to find who’s liable, and how to get you the money you deserve. If you have been in this situation, our accident lawyers today. Your consultation is always free. Call us or send us a message online. With offices in San Antonio, Austin McAllen, and Laredo, the Texas Law Guns will fight for you.
The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS dedicates their time and effort towards helping people in Texas find justice for personal negligence encountered while living their normal, everyday lives.