Commercial trucks are essential for the transportation of goods across the country, but their sheer size and weight make them potentially dangerous on the roads. One critical aspect that significantly influences the safety of these vehicles is proper maintenance. You may be surprised when your truck accident lawyer talks about filing a suit against a mechanic after you’ve been hit by a semi. Why would they do this? Our friends at the Law Firm of Edward Blinder, PLLC, explain why, with a deep dive into the importance of truck maintenance and its direct correlation with liability in commercial vehicle accidents.
The Impact Of Inadequate Commercial Vehicle Maintenance
Truck maintenance goes beyond routine oil changes and tire rotations. It encompasses a comprehensive check of the vehicle’s mechanical and safety components. Failure to uphold proper maintenance standards can lead to a range of issues, including brake failure, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and engine problems. These maintenance-related issues significantly increase the risk of accidents on the road.
Liability In Truck Accidents Due To Maintenance Failures
When a commercial truck is involved in an accident, determining liability becomes a critical aspect of legal proceedings. In cases where inadequate maintenance is identified as a contributing factor, liability may extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company or maintenance personnel.
Trucking Company Responsibility
Trucking companies have a legal obligation to ensure their fleet is properly maintained and complies with all safety regulations. If an accident occurs due to negligent maintenance practices, the trucking company may be held liable for damages. This includes regular inspections, timely repairs, and keeping accurate maintenance records.
Maintenance Personnel Liability
Maintenance crews and technicians responsible for servicing commercial trucks play a pivotal role in ensuring the vehicles are roadworthy. If negligence or substandard practices on the part of maintenance personnel contribute to an accident, they may be held liable for their role in the incident.
Manufacturer Defects
In some cases, accidents may be traced back to manufacturing defects or faulty components. If a defect is identified as the cause of the accident, the truck manufacturer or the manufacturer of specific components may be held liable for the resulting damages.
Proving Negligence In Maintenance
To establish liability in truck accidents related to maintenance issues, it is crucial to prove negligence. This involves demonstrating that:
- The trucking company or maintenance personnel had a duty of care to properly maintain the vehicle
- There was a breach of this duty through inadequate maintenance or failure to address known issues
- The breach directly led to the mechanical failure or defect that contributed to the accident
- The accident resulted in damages to the victim, such as injuries, property damage, or financial losses
Legal Recourse For Victims
Victims of truck accidents caused by maintenance failures have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. This may include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consulting with an experienced truck accident lawyer is essential to navigating the legal complexities of such cases and building a strong case for compensation.Truck maintenance is not merely a logistical concern for the trucking industry; it is a fundamental aspect of public safety. When neglected, it can lead to catastrophic accidents with severe consequences. Getting justice with the help of a truck accident lawyer can help you recover and move on.
