November 11th, 2024

Did you know that a single missed maintenance check can turn a truck into a deadly hazard? With thousands of trucks on California’s highways every day, neglected maintenance isn’t just an oversight—it’s a serious threat to everyone on the road.

With over 140,000 drayage trucks and many more freight vehicles traveling daily on the state’s highways, trucking companies and drivers must take proper measures to maintain their fleets.

As experienced California truck accident lawyers, we know that delayed repairs can lead to fatal accidents. If you’re injured in a semi-truck collision, you need legal help to protect your rights and pursue compensation from negligent trucking companies.

The Responsibilities of Trucking Companies and Drivers

Federal and state laws require trucking companies to keep their vehicles safe and well-maintained. The FMCSA enforces these rules by mandating regular inspections and repairs for key components like brakes, tires, and lights. Trucking companies must also keep detailed maintenance records for at least 12 months, and failing to meet these requirements can lead to penalties.

Following these maintenance procedures keeps trucks functioning correctly, reducing the risk of mechanical failures and helping protect everyone on the road.

Common Maintenance Issues That Cause Truck Accidents

Poorly maintained trucks are prone to mechanical failures like brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or engine failure. Common maintenance issues that lead to serious accidents include:

  • Brake Failure: Brake problems contribute to around 29% of truck crashes in the U.S. Without proper maintenance, worn brake pads or air brake issues make it difficult for trucks to stop, especially on steep or congested roads.
  • Tire Blowouts: Worn or underinflated tires often cause blowouts, leading to loss of control. Nationwide, tire issues account for around 6% of truck collisions. California’s heat increases the likelihood, making regular checks critical to avoiding accidents.
  • Steering and Suspension Problems: Faulty steering or suspension systems can lead to rollovers, especially during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. These failures make it harder to control the truck, increasing the risk of crossing the center line or jackknifing, which can result in a serious crash.
  • Lighting Malfunctions: Broken headlights or turn signals reduce driver visibility and communication. Malfunctioning taillights on a commercial truck can increase the risk of rear-end collisions, particularly on busy highways.
  • Transmission Issues: Transmission problems can cause sudden loss of power, leading to accidents, especially in traffic or on inclines. Without regular checks, these failures can happen unexpectedly, leaving the driver unable to accelerate or shift gears safely.
  • Cooling System Failures: Overheating engines from neglected cooling systems can cause breakdowns on busy roads. This can leave large trucks stranded, blocking traffic and creating dangerous conditions for other drivers.
  • Fuel System Leaks: Faulty fuel systems can lead to dangerous leaks, increasing the risk of fire or explosions, particularly after a collision. What starts as a small leak can quickly turn a minor accident into a deadly disaster.

Legal Implications of Neglected Truck Maintenance

When truck owners or operators neglect essential maintenance, the consequences can be devastating—not just legally but emotionally. Families are often left to pick up the pieces after an avoidable tragedy caused by a simple oversight, like worn brakes or a tire blowout.

The pain of losing a loved one or dealing with life-altering injuries is compounded by the knowledge that it could have been prevented. That’s why seeking justice isn’t just about compensation—it’s about holding those responsible accountable for the suffering they’ve caused.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Berg Injury Lawyers, we can help you gather evidence, like maintenance logs, inspection records, and repair reports, to prove negligence and get you the financial support you deserve.

Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident Caused by Neglected Maintenance

Neglected truck maintenance poses a significant threat to everyone on the road. When trucking companies or drivers fail to address essential repairs, they increase the risk of catastrophic accidents. Whether it’s a brake failure, tire blowout, or other mechanical issue, these accidents can cause serious injuries or fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident due to negligent maintenance, get qualified legal representation from Berg Injury Lawyers. We can help you hold negligent truck owners and operators accountable and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.