Maintenance Matters: How Neglected Trucks Become Highway Hazards

Large commercial trucks are the backbone of our economy, tirelessly transporting goods across the nation. However, when these powerful machines are not properly maintained, they can transform from vital economic engines into significant highway hazards. Neglected maintenance is a critical issue that contributes to a substantial number of truck-related accidents, endangering the lives of truck drivers and other motorists alike.

Vehicle-related problems account for a notable percentage of large truck accidents and types of incidents where a truck accident lawyer should be involved. Safety, repair and maintenance costs have increased by 3.1% and are now $0.202/mile. This means some companies may decide to cut back on maintenance to save money. Unfortunately, with the average loaded semi-truck weighing 80,000 pounds, even seemingly minor mechanical failures can have catastrophic consequences.

Common Maintenance Failures

Several key areas of truck maintenance are frequently overlooked, each with the potential to cause serious accidents:

• Brake System Failures: This is one of the most critical and common maintenance-related causes of truck accidents, and it is linked to 29% of large truck accidents. Worn-out brake pads, malfunctioning brake lines, inadequate brake fluid levels, or improperly adjusted brakes can significantly increase a truck’s stopping distance or lead to complete brake failure. 
• Tire Blowouts and Degradation: Tires are a truck’s only contact with the road, making their condition paramount to safety. Neglected tires, including those that are underinflated, overinflated, bald, or have low tread depth, are prone to blowouts, which cause 78,000 accidents a year. 
• Engine and Transmission Problems: Poorly maintained engines and transmissions can lead to sudden breakdowns or a loss of power. This can be particularly hazardous on highways or inclines, potentially causing a truck to stall or become a runaway vehicle. 
• Faulty Lighting and Signaling Systems: Proper visibility is crucial for safe road sharing. Malfunctioning headlights, taillights, brake lights, or turn signals can make it difficult for other drivers to see the truck or anticipate its movements, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions. 
• Steering and Suspension Issues: Worn-out steering components or a faulty suspension system can make a truck difficult to control, particularly on uneven roads or during sharp turns. 
• Coupling and Cargo Securement Failures: Improperly maintained trailer hitches or inadequate cargo securing mechanisms can lead to catastrophic events, such as a trailer detaching or cargo spilling onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles. Cargo securement failures are in the top four violations in road checks.

A truck accident attorney will look at all these things when investigating a claim.

The Consequences of Poor Maintenance

The failure to maintain commercial trucks properly has far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate risk of accidents. Trucking companies and drivers can face severe legal and financial repercussions, including hefty fines, suspension of operating licenses, and costly lawsuits in the event of a crash caused by negligent maintenance. Furthermore, accidents lead to significant downtime for vehicles, impacting operational efficiency and profitability. Most importantly, the human cost in terms of injuries and fatalities is immeasurable.

The Importance of Inspections and Regular Servicing

The good news is that many maintenance-related accidents are preventable. Stringent adherence to maintenance schedules and thorough inspections are critical.

Ensuring that large trucks are well-maintained is a shared responsibility. Trucking companies must prioritize safety by investing in regular maintenance and creating a culture where safety is paramount.