Mechanical failures lead to plenty of accidents, but those crashes can be especially devastating when a truck is involved. These vehicles are larger and heavier than other vehicles on the road, and they’re often carrying heavy cargo as well. So poor truck maintenance can lead to serious accidents that can kill people or leave behind lifelong injuries. If you or a loved one were harmed in such an accident, then you should talk to a San Antonio, Texas truck accident lawyer from our firm.
How Can Poor Truck Maintenance Cause Accidents?
A truck that is poorly cared for is much more likely to get involved in an accident. Common maintenance issues include:
- Problems with lights, like turn signals and brake lights
- Issues with the braking system
- Defective couplings for attaching cargo
- A broken or damaged windshield that affects visibility
- Damaged mirrors
- Transmission failures
- Collapsed or damaged suspensions
These kinds of issues rarely develop overnight. If poor truck maintenance causes a major mechanical or safety problem that leads to an accident, someone needs to be held accountable.
Who Can Be Blamed When Poor Truck Maintenance Causes a Crash?
In most cases, it’s the trucking company that is going to be liable when a poorly maintained vehicle causes a crash. This company is supposed to be responsible for the upkeep of its trucks.
Drivers can also be held responsible though. They are supposed to inspect their trucks for safety problems. If they don’t bother with inspections because they want to finish their route and get paid, then they could create a dangerous situation for themselves and everyone else on the road with them.
Why Don’t Companies Fix or Repair Issues?
Fixing things costs money. Some companies gamble and decide that it’s worthwhile to send out trucks with safety issues as long as they can make money. They need to be held accountable when their vehicles injure others due to poor truck maintenance.
In some other cases, a company may not know about the issue. If the driver does not properly inspect their truck and inform their employer of issues, that negligence could lead to an accident. This can happen due to driver fatigue and a company that works its employees too hard, ignoring rules about rest breaks and hours of operation. This can also happen because the company is negligent and not hiring the most qualified drivers.
What Kinds of Damages Can I Sue For After an Accident?
If you decide to sue a truck driver or truck company for damages, you have to show that they are negligent. A lawyer from our firm can help you build a convincing case and fight to get you compensated for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
Talk to Our Personal Injury Lawyers
When you are ready to learn more about your legal options, contact the Sahadi Legal Group. We can schedule a free consultation and tell you more about what our attorneys can do to help you.
