Proper Commercial Truck Maintenance Is Vital for Accident Avoidance

Improper maintenance can cause commercial truck accidents. Commercial carriers may be held liable for resulting injuries.

2012-07-01

July 01, 2012 (Press-News.org) Commercial truck technology has come a long way in recent years, with some parts able to outlive the truck on which they are installed. Though these improvements make commercial truck maintenance easier, they do not completely alleviate the need for maintenance checks. Proper maintenance is one way to ensure commercial vehicles are safe and that defects in the truck itself are less likely to cause accidents.

Axles and Truck Suspensions: Two Maintenance Concerns

A truck's suspension and axles are vital pieces of its anatomy. Either may compromise safety if not in good working order. Axle seals, wheel seals and lubricant should be checked regularly for leaks and dryness. Many trucks have steel-spring suspensions that require visual inspection and periodic tune-ups. Common issues with steel suspensions include corrosion and stress cracks in the metal.

FMCSA Commercial Truck Maintenance Regulations

Fortunately, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all commercial motor carriers to regularly inspect and repair their fleets. Inspections must include review of a truck's frame, suspension, axles, wheel and steering mechanism. Additionally, bus emergency doors and lights and push-out windows must be checked every 90 days. Motor carriers are required to maintain inspection and repair records for all vehicles for 18 months after the vehicles leave their control.

It is unlawful to operate a truck if it is known to be unsafe for the road and likely to cause an accident. If a truck breaks down on the road, the driver cannot move it unless it is situated in a way that creates a hazard to the public.

Commercial Truck Accident Liability

When poorly maintained trucks cause accidents, it is possible for injured parties to sue motor vehicle carriers for negligence if a plaintiff can prove the company failed to properly maintain the vehicle and this negligence contributed to an accident. It may also be possible to hold the part manufacturer responsible if a defective part was partially or wholly to blame.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by a commercial truck and you believe an improperly maintained vehicle or defective part may be to blame, please contact an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your legal options.

Article provided by John K. Zaid & Associates, PLLC
Visit us at www.zaidlaw.com

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Proper Commercial Truck Maintenance Is Vital for Accident Avoidance

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