One of the most common causes of truck accidents is brake failure. According to a recent study from the U.S. Department of Transportation, 29.4 percent of crashes involving large trucks included brake-related issues such as brake failure or brakes that are out of adjustment. It is helpful for truck drivers to understand the most common causes of brake failure so they can aid in the prevention of these types of accidents.
Certain individuals are responsible for the maintenance and proper functioning of brakes in a truck. If you are involved in a truck accident caused by malfunctioning brakes, the following parties may be liable:
- Truck drivers: Drivers must perform daily inspections of their truck before they begin a trip. Brake shoes, brake chambers and other components of the brakes must be checked. Drivers are also responsible for recording the condition of the truck’s parts, and reporting any malfunctioning equipment.
- Brake manufacturers: All braking systems in trucks must adhere to strict federal regulations on braking force, deceleration rates and automatic brake adjustments. There are occasions where manufacturers may not design the brakes properly, or where an error occurs during manufacturing. In such a case, the federal government mandates that manufacturers recall all defective parts.
- Truck loaders: Workers who load the truck are responsible for ensuring the load is evenly distributed. If the truck is not loaded properly it may cause the brakes to overheat, which may cause a malfunction.
- Truck owners: Trucking companies and owners are responsible for maintaining all parts of a truck including its brakes. Maintenance must be recorded and performed periodically to prevent failures in equipment.
Coming to a resolution over who is responsible for brake failure can be a complicated process. If you were involved in a truck accident in which brakes failed, work with a dedicated North Carolina truck accident attorney at Lanier Law Group, P.A.