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This thought-provoking blog post from our Los Angeles truck accident attorney delves into the frightening world of trucking accidents caused by failed safety mechanisms. We explore real-life incidents, the most commonly failed safety systems, and the devastating consequences they can have for accident victims. Discover the role of maintenance in preventing these catastrophic failures and what to do if you become a victim.
What Are the Most Commonly Failed Safety Systems on Trucks?
Commercial trucks are essential for our supply chain. However, they pose significant dangers on the road. Therefore, the federal government sets strict regulations and rules for the trucking industry.
Many of the trucking regulations deal with truck safety. Trucks must have various safety mechanisms that decrease the risk of truck crashes. Unfortunately, truck safety mechanisms can fail. Truck safety systems that could lead to a truck accident if they fail include, but are not limited to:
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failure
- Rearguard failure (helps prevent underride accidents)
- Broken or defective windshield wipers
- Transmission failure
- Missing, malfunctioning, or broken lights
- Suspension failure
- Malfunctioning hitches (coupling malfunction)
- Steering system
The FMCSA’s regulations require motor carriers and intermodal equipment providers to systematically inspect, maintain, and repair all motor vehicles and equipment in their control. The repair, inspection, and maintenance must be a part of a scheduled or regular program to keep vehicles in a safe operating condition.
Failed Safety Mechanisms Result in Catastrophic Injuries
When a truck safety mechanism fails, it can cause a large truck accident. Occupants of passenger vehicles have a high risk of sustaining traumatic injuries and life-threatening conditions. Common truck accident injuries include:
- Crushing injuries
- Amputations and loss of limbs
- Internal organ damage
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries
- Nerve damage
- Back and neck injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Severe burns and scarring
- Paralysis
Immediate medical treatment is required for catastrophic injuries. Accident victims could spend weeks or months in the hospital and rehabilitation.
Who Is Responsible for Damages Caused by Failed Truck Safety Mechanisms?
If the failure of a truck safety mechanism causes a truck accident, one or more parties could be liable for the damages. Examples of parties who might be responsible for a failed truck safety mechanism accident include:
- Truck driver if they failed to inspect the vehicle and follow laws and regulations
- Trucking companies if they were negligent in maintaining trucks and enforcing safety procedures and regulations
- Manufacturers for manufacturing defective truck parts and systems
- Mechanics, repair companies, and maintenance companies for negligent services and maintenance
- Cargo owners and loaders for overloading and improperly securing trucks
The first step in recovering compensation is determining the cause of the accident. Then, you must identify the parties responsible for the factors that contributed to or caused the truck crash.
Truck accident investigations are complicated, involving federal and state trucking regulations. They can also be time-consuming and expensive. Our Los Angeles truck accident attorney handles all aspects of the investigation for you.
Learn More About Truck Accident Cases During a Free Consultation with Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney
One or more parties could be liable for your injuries and damages caused when a truck’s safety mechanisms fail. Our Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help you file claims against the at-fault parties seeking compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Contact our office today for your free case evaluation from an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney.