Mechanical Failure Truck Accidents: Liability, Prevention & More

Defining a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident

A mechanic failure truck accident refers to incidents where the functioning property of the truck is compromised causing harm to individuals or other motor vehicles on the road.

This can stem from a multitude of causes:

• Faulty braking systems;
• Tire failure;
• Engine failure;
• Driver error;
• Suspension failure;
• High speeds;
• Steering failure;
• Tractor trailers; and
• Overloaded cargo.

Each of these can have severe consequences ranging from damage to other vehicles, environmental harm, and, in extreme cases, loss of life.

Damages in a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident

In a mechanical failure truck accident, the damages refer to the physical, financial, and emotional consequences suffered by the victims.

Liability for these accidents usually falls on the truck owner or the manufacturer.

Here are some key takeaways on damages in a mechanical failure truck accident:

Major causes of mechanical failure in trucks:

• Brake issues: These are the most common mechanical failures leading to truck accidents.
• Tire blowouts: They are the second most common cause of truck accidents due to mechanical failure.
• Other mechanical issues: These include faulty windshield wipers, burnt-out headlights, and other equipment problems.

Who is at Fault in a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident?

Determining who is at fault in a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident can be a complex process due to the involvement of various parties.

Here are the potential parties that can be held liable:

1. The Truck Driver: If the driver has been neglecting the truck’s maintenance or operating the truck unsafely, they may be held responsible.
2. The Trucking Company: The company can be held liable if it fails to enforce safety measures or pursue regular inspections.
3. The Manufacturer: If the accident was due to defective parts, the manufacturer of those parts can be at fault.

Victims of these accidents have several legal options available:

• Personal Injury Claims: Victims can file a claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs.
• Wrongful Death Claims: In tragic cases where the accident results in death, the victims’ family can seek compensation through a wrongful death claim.

Specifics of Mechanical Failure Truck Accidents

While every accident is unique, certain specific aspects regularly contribute to Mechanical Failure Truck Accidents.

1. Regular Vehicle Inspection: Routine checks can help identify and repair mechanical failures before they lead to accidents.
2. Immediate Response to Vehicle Dysfunction: Early detection and action upon any signs of malfunction can prevent accidents.
3. Knowledge of Vehicle Operating Systems: A comprehensive understanding of the truck’s functioning can help in the timely identification of mechanical failures.
4. Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly maintaining the vehicle, such as checking oil and brake fluid levels and changing tires when necessary, can reduce the risk of mechanical failures ending in accidents.

Safeguarding Yourself From a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident

Mechanical truck failure is a significant factor in truck accidents.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), vehicle-related issues, not driver actions or environmental factors, cause about 10% of all truck accidents​.

Mechanical failures in trucks include brake failure, notably the most common cause, accounting for 27% of the accidents, and tire failures​.

Here are a few suggestions to guard against the possibility of being involved in a mechanical failure truck accident:

1. Maintain Distance: Given trucks’ size and weight, it’s crucial to keep a safe distance. This provides more reaction time in case of sudden stops or failures. It’s advised to leave at least four seconds of space between you and a commercial truck and even more when a truck is turning, as some may take up two lanes during a wide turn​​​.
2. Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanical failures in trucks often result from issues with brakes, steering, wheels, and tires.
3. Defensive Driving: Anticipate potential road hazards, including the behavior of other drivers and possible mechanical failures in trucks.
4. Avoid Distractions: Staying fully focused on driving helps in avoiding truck crashes. Limit all distractions inside and outside the vehicle, including phone calls, items moving around in your vehicle, and external scenery​​​.
5. Use Clear Signals: Clearly signal your intentions on the road so that truck drivers can anticipate your actions. This is crucial for safe merging and passing around trucks​​​.
6. Be Careful When Pulling Over: If you need to stop on the highway, use hazard lights, set up cones or flares if possible, and ensure the roadway is clear before rejoining traffic​.
7. Drive at Legal and Reasonable Speeds: Adhere to speed limits and adjust your speed according to weather and road conditions. Speed management is vital for large commercial trucks​.
8. Conduct a Pre-Check: Before setting off, ensure that your vehicle’s lights, brakes, tires, and mirrors are in good condition. This helps in preventing accidents due to vehicle malfunction​.
9. Avoid Road Rage: Stay calm and composed on the road. Road rage can escalate dangerous situations and impede safe driving​​​.

Legal Assistance and Compensation for Mechanical Failure Truck Accident Victims

Truck accidents due to mechanical failures, like tire issues, require specific legal expertise.

Lawyers with experience in truck accident cases, such as those at TorHoerman, important to prove mechanical failure as the cause.

Reassessing Truck Accident Causes: Insights from UMTRI

The Michigan Transportation Research Institute provides insights on the importance of comprehensive legal analysis in accidents, especially where mechanical failures are suspected.

• Passenger Vehicle Involvement: Of fatal accidents involving heavy trucks, 70% are primarily caused by passenger vehicles.
• Truck Driver Error: Only 16% of these accidents are due to errors by truck drivers alone.
• Combined Errors: In 10% of cases, both truck and passenger vehicle drivers make errors.

Steps to Take After a Mechanical Failure Truck Accident

Here’s a summary of the key actions to take following a mechanical failure truck accident:

1. Seek Medical Attention: If you are involved in a serious traffic collision, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and can show up later. Medical records can also be essential for insurance claims or legal actions.
2. Stay at the Accident Scene: Leaving the scene is illegal. Wait for first responders to check for injuries and report the accident.
3. Move to a Safe Place: If possible, move to a safe location near the truck crash. Use flares or cones to warn other drivers if necessary.
4. Call the Police: Reporting the accident to law enforcement is crucial, especially if it results in injury or death. Police will document the scene and gather witness statements.
5. Collect Information About the Accident: Collect details such as the truck driver’s name, contact information, license number, the trucking company’s information, and insurance carrier details.
6. Get Witness Statements: If you can, collect witness statements and their contact information.
7. Take Photos: Document the scene with photos of the vehicles involved, personal property damage, and your injuries.
8. Follow Through with Medical Treatment: If you’re injured and receive a treatment plan, ensure you follow it. This is important for your health and for any potential insurance claims.

TorHoerman Law: The #1 Mechanical Failure Truck Accidents Lawyers

Our attorneys specialize in all types of trucking accidents to assist you with the challenges of gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting in court.

1. Experience – We have a deep understanding of truck wide right turn accident cases and the legal intricacies involved.
2. Personal Approach – Every case is unique. We give each client personalized attention, focusing on their specific needs.
3. No-Win, No-Fee – You only pay if we win. This shows our commitment to getting you the best outcome.

For personalized guidance in any of these types of truck accidents, use our chat feature on this page to connect with an experienced Truck Accident Attorney at Torhoerman Law.