Truck Accidents Caused by Negligent Maintenance
Truck accidents can be devastating, especially when they are caused by negligence. One form of negligence often overlooked is poor maintenance of the truck. When a truck owner or operator fails to properly maintain their vehicle, it can lead to serious accidents, endangering not just the truck driver but also everyone on the road.
These accidents are unfortunately all too common, and the consequences are often severe. At Larry R. Williams, PLLC, your highly experienced Nashville truck accident attorney is committed to helping you recover the fair compensation you deserve.
Common Maintenance Issues That Lead to Truck Accidents in Nashville
Negligent maintenance of a commercial truck is one of the top causes of truck accidents in Tennessee. Below are some of the most common maintenance problems that truck operators and owners should address to ensure safety on the road:
Brakes and Tires
The braking system is one of the most critical components of any vehicle. If brakes are improperly maintained, the risk of an accident increases dramatically, especially in a commercial truck as described by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Worn-out brake pads, lack of brake fluid, or improperly adjusted brakes can cause the driver to lose control of the truck, leading to catastrophic car accidents.
Similarly, tires that are worn out or improperly inflated can cause a truck driver to lose control, especially when traveling at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions. Regular tire checks and proper inflation are critical to preventing blowouts and rollover truck accidents in Nashville.
Lights and Signaling
Trucks must have functioning lights and signaling systems to ensure they are visible to other drivers. A malfunctioning brake light or turn signal can create confusion on the road and increase the risk of an accident. Truck drivers rely on their lighting systems to communicate with other vehicles, so if these systems are not properly maintained, it can result in deadly collisions.
Suspension and Steering
The suspension and steering systems of a truck help control the vehicle’s handling and stability. If these systems are not properly maintained, it can cause the truck to become unstable, leading to rollover accidents, jackknifing, or complete loss of control. Faulty suspension or steering components can make it difficult for the driver to maneuver the truck, especially on sharp turns or when responding to unexpected road hazards.
Legal Liability in Truck Accidents Caused by Negligent Maintenance
In accidents caused by negligent maintenance, several parties may be at fault for a semi-truck wreck, depending on the specifics of the case. The following parties could be responsible for damages:
- Truck owner or operator – The truck owner or operator is responsible for ensuring that the truck is properly maintained, which includes conducting regular safety inspections and making necessary repairs per 49 CFR 396.11.
- Truck maintenance providers – A third-party maintenance provider may be held accountable if faulty repairs or neglected maintenance leads to an accident.
- Truck manufacturers – If the cause of the accident stems from a defect in the truck’s design or parts, the manufacturer may be held responsible. Faulty components, such as defective brakes or tires, could result in an accident, and the manufacturer would be liable for producing these defective parts.
Connect With a Community-Focused Nashville Truck Accident Lawyer for Help Today
A collision caused by negligent maintenance can disrupt your life in ways you never expected. Our legal team with Larry R. Williams, PLLC understands the challenges these accidents bring, and we are here to fight tirelessly for the justice you deserve. Your Nashville personal injury lawyer with our firm is here to hold the at-fault party accountable.
We will work relentlessly to identify all responsible parties, gather the necessary evidence, and secure the compensation that can help you move forward. Contact us now to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Reach us by phone or through our convenient contact form to get started on your case as soon as today.