Although many semi-truck accidents are caused by negligent driving, some are attributable to poor truck maintenance. Unless you’re diligent in building your truck accident personal injury claim, you may not discover that negligent maintenance practices have contributed to your wreck. This, in turn, can cause you to miss out on an opportunity to advocate for the compensation you deserve after your truck accident.
Top semi-truck maintenance issues that pose a safety risk
Several maintenance issues can render a semi-truck dangerous. This includes these critical issues:
- Improperly checked and repaired braking systems that can lead to system-wide failure
- Inadequately inspected tires, which can lead to a tire blowout
- Negligently maintained steering systems
- Improperly checked and maintained engine and transmission systems
These issues can increase the risk of a devastating truck accident. Bad braking systems can result in rear-end collisions, faulty steering systems can lead to a jackknife, and a tire blowout can cause a truck to swerve into oncoming traffic and even roll over. These trucks can speed through intersections, run away down hills, and even lose their cargo when they’re improperly inspected and maintained, putting drivers like you at risk.
What should you do if you’ve been injured in a truck accident?
Truckers and their employers are required to regularly inspect and repair their trucks. When this doesn’t happen and you’re injured as a result, you need to think about taking legal action. After all, doing so may be the only way to find accountability and recover the compensation you need to offset your losses.
So, if you’re ready to stand up and advocate for the outcome that’s right for you, then now is the time to subpoena the truck company’s maintenance records to see if this is a viable legal avenue for you.