When you see a tractor-trailer, cement truck, log truck, or box truck headed down a Virginia road, the last thing you probably think about is something malfunctioning on the truck. However, one of the leading causes of truck crashes is failure of parts and systems. Some of the different types of equipment that can fail and lead to trucking accidents include:
- Tires or wheels
- Brakes
- Steering system
- Trailer attachment
- Engine or transmission
Although most collisions with trucks are caused by driver negligence and driver error, there are some truck crashes caused by the failure of these various important components. This is because many trucking companies prioritize money over safety—which is why they don’t take trucks off the road for regular maintenance and inspection. Consequently, various truck parts and systems can fail with age and without the proper care and maintenance.
Truck Equipment Failure Due to Poorly Maintained Trucks
When trucks are poorly maintained and put on the road, the chances it will break down or have a collision due to worn-out parts increases. When unsafe trucks are the cause of a crash, the trucking company or even the driver can be held liable for the accident and injuries that occurred as a result of truck maintenance neglect.
Truck Equipment Failure Due to Defective Parts
In some cases, trucks are well maintained but they still break down or crash due to faulty truck equipment. If this is the case, there could have been something wrong with the truck from the start due to poor manufacturing or design. If it is determined that a truck accident was caused as a result of defective equipment, the manufacturer could be held accountable for the accident and injuries.
What You Should Know About Truck Equipment Failure Accidents
If you are involved in a trucking accident that is due to equipment failure, it is important to know that the trucking company will almost immediately get started covering their tracks. Because evidence is key to your case, it is critical that you work with an experienced attorney who knows what to look for and how to handle truck accident cases.
Please contact our law firm today at 703-721-4233. We have stood up to many trucking companies and know what it takes to get our clients the best possible compensation and outcome.