Unmaintained Brakes
Many truck accidents stem from problems with the truck’s air brakes, including improperly adjusted brakes, brake imbalance, brake malfunction, braking deficiencies and brake failure.
Commercial trucks and semi trucks are driven thousands of miles every year and truck parts wear out. Truck drivers have a duty to diligently inspect their semi tractor trailer every day and keep their vehicles in good working order. When truck drivers and trucking companies fail to inspect and properly maintain brakes, steering mechanisms, tires, and other truck parts, they put innocent lives at risk.
When a catastrophic trucking accident such as an override accident or other types of accidents occur, it is very common for the truck driver to claim that the brakes were defective. But catastrophic brake failures are rare on trucks. Brake systems on modern vehicles are required to have various fail-safe mechanisms that reduce the likelihood of complete failure. Trucks have two separate braking systems where in the event of a failure, the trucker should still have the ability to stop. In a panic situation, in order to do so, this may require a greater distance.
Brake failure can occur because of improper installation, age, or maintenance by either the big rig owner (for big rig brakes), or the truck trailer owner (for truck trailer brakes). A truck’s brakes can dramatically heat up from overuse, for example riding the brakes on a long downgrade, or from sudden stopping (especially at high speeds). The heavier the truck, generally, the more heat generated. In addition, improper loading can make the brakes heat up more during use.
Braking deficiencies can be caused by oil-contaminated brakes, worn brakes, bad brake lines, and poorly adjusted brakes. A truck with deficient breaks will usually be able to stop but not as quickly. If you have been injured in a truck accident in Florida, contact the Shaked Law Firm.