Tampa Negligent Truck Maintenance Lawyer
Semi trucks are very large and heavy, so when they get involved in an accident, many people point the fingers at the truck driver or trucking company—and for good reason. Trucking companies do not always follow the laws. This is especially true when it comes to truck maintenance.
When a truck accident occurs, sometimes a mechanical issue is to blame. These issues are often caused by the failure to maintain the truck. When this lack of maintenance causes an accident, then those responsible for maintaining that truck may be held liable for any damages.
If you have been involved in such a crash, seek legal help from the Tampa truck accident lawyers at Anderson & Anderson.
Maintenance and Repairs Required for Semi Trucks
All vehicles require routine maintenance, and this is especially true for semi trucks. In fact, there are state and federal laws in place that mandate when a commercial vehicle must be maintained and inspected.
For example, under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), truck drivers are required to perform a pre-trip inspection as well as a post-trip one. Truck drivers and owners are also required to keep thorough records of all inspections, maintenance, and repairs for a period of one year.
Why Is Truck Maintenance Strictly Regulated?
Semi trucks are complex vehicles. They are very large, weighing 20 times more than the average passenger vehicle. They also require special training to operate and repair. A semi truck may have as many as 18 gears. Plus, the dashboard consists of multiple levers, gauges, and other instrumentation.
Given the complexity of these vehicles, there is so much that can go wrong. The truck driver, the trucking company, and the companies that work on the vehicle are all responsible for ensuring that the truck is functioning properly before it is driven on the road. These trucks also need a full inspection every year.
If the owner of the semi truck fails to preserve maintenance and inspection records, they can be held liable in the event of an accident. If a lack of maintenance causes a crash, the truck driver and owner can face a lot of legal trouble.
Common Maintenance Issues With Semi Trucks
Some of the most common maintenance issues with semi trucks include the following:
- Faulty brakes
- Tire blowouts
- Steering column problems
- Broken or malfunctioning headlights and other lights
- Trailer hitch failures
- Unsecured cargo falling off the truck
Contact Us Today
When a trucking company fails to perform required maintenance or fix a problem with the truck, the result can be a serious accident. A lack of maintenance can cause braking problems, tire blowouts, and more, leading to a catastrophic or even fatal truck accident.
If you are a victim, seek legal help from the Tampa truck accident lawyers at Anderson & Anderson. Truck accidents can be complex, so we’ll work aggressively and fight for your rights to compensation. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 813-251-0072.
