Semi-trucks travel across America’s network of interstates and highways every second of every day. Delivering goods on time is a massive part of our economy, with people ordering items online at a higher volume. However, their constant presence on our roads also brings potential danger – particularly during big rig accidents.
In this article, we will discuss the three major maintenance issues that contribute to big rig accidents:
- Tire Issues
- Brake Failures
- Mechanical Problems
Proper maintenance of big rigs, known as semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, is more than a best practice – it’s a safety necessity. These large vehicles demand constant attention and diligent care to ensure their safe operation. Unfortunately, inadequate maintenance is a leading cause of big rig accidents on our highways.
1. Tire Issues
Tire-related issues contribute significantly to big rig accidents. As the only point of contact between a heavy, fast-moving semi-truck and the roadway, tires are instrumental in maintaining vehicle control, stability, and overall safety. Common tire issues that can lead to big rig accidents are:
- Blowouts
- Tread Separations
- Insufficient Tire Pressure
All of these problems can cause a truck driver to lose control of their big rig. In 2020, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 644 motor vehicle fatalities in tired-related accidents. It’s not just bout meeting regulatory requirements but also ensuring the safety of the driver and other road users.
2. Brake Failures
The ability to stop a massive, high-speed vehicle in time is crucial to prevent collisions. When the braking system is compromised, the consequences can be disastrous. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), loaded tractor-trailers need 20 to 40 percent more distance than cars to stop.
This makes the breaking system one of the most critical components of stopping a semi-truck. Brake failures due to poor maintenance are a common cause of big rig accidents. Regular inspection and timely replacement of worn-out brake pads, faulty lines, and damaged rotors can help prevent such catastrophic events.
3. Mechanical Problems
Mechanical failures, from from engine problems to steering system faults, can lead to catastrophic big rig accidents. A sudden breakdown while driving can cause the driver to lose control, posing a significant risk to everyone using the roadway.
Semi-trucks also have have complex electrical systems controlling everything from lights and indicators to sensors and onboard computer systems. Electrical failures can lead to a variety of issues, from non-working lights to engine malfunctions.
The best way to prevent a situation like this is to conduct regular vehicle maintenance. These checks can identify potential mechanical issues before they escalate into serious problems. Moving forward, trucking and logistics companies need to invest in making sure their vehicles are kept in good condition.
Deldar Legal’s Role
Sometimes, no matter how many maintenance checks you do or how careful commercial truck drivers navigate the roads, big rig accidents happen. And because these trucks are big and heavy, they cause serious damage. In these cases, people need Deldar Legal to handle their personal injury claims for big rig accidents out of their control.
The injuries sustained in a big rig accident can be long-term, resulting in permanent damage that permanently alters your daily life. To schedule a free case evaluation, contact us at (844) 335-3271. Our knowledgeable trucking accident lawyers are available to assist victims in California.
Tagged with: big rig accidents, equipment failure, road safety
Posted in: Trucking Accidents