St Louis Truck Equipment Failure
Missouri Truck Equipment Failure
It is crucial for the safety of all motorists that large commercial trucks are properly maintained. Brake failure or tire failure are examples of what could result in a catastrophic truck accident. Such truck crashes can cause major injuries such as brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones or even death. When a trucking company fails to maintain its vehicles, the company could be held liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused.
Trucking companies are required under state and federal law to verify the condition of their mechanical, safety and emergency equipment before they get on the road. Also, during a stop, a truck driver is required to conduct an inspection looking for problems with his vehicle and/or cargo.
Some of the items that should be on every truck driver's checklist include:
- Tire condition
- Tire inflation levels
- Brake condition
- Condition of marker lights and reflective strips
- Fluid levels
- Wheel seals
- Weight distribution of the load
- Securing the load
- Kingpin failures
When a Missouri truck accident occurs due to truck equipment failure, it is important to investigate the accident right away. Physical evidence relating to vehicle maintenance or vehicle maintenance records that drivers and firms are required to maintain may get lost, misplaced or destroyed with time. Prompt investigation is the key to building an effective and successful claim.
The Responsibility of the Truck Driver
A truck driver holds responsibility for his or her actions that led to a crash. The truck driver's actions relating to vehicle maintenance will and should be scrutinized in the aftermath of a crash. Did the truck driver intentionally avoid necessary repairs? Was the truck driver negligent in ensuring that the truck was up to code and properly maintained? These are important questions to ask.
Shipping Companies and Truck Owners
The company that employs the driver involved in a crash may be held liable for the damages. Was the company aware of any potential problems with the truck? Did the company encourage maintenance checkups and repairs? Did the employer force the driver to work long hours that did not permit time for a routine maintenance review? An experienced and skilled truck accident attorney will examine truck maintenance records to determine if the fault lies with the owner or the employer of the vehicle in question.
Many companies have maintenance companies that work on their vehicles. When a vehicle is brought in for a repair and the job is done poorly or not done at all, the maintenance firm may be responsible for the resulting accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, the skilled St Louis personal injury attorneys of Page Law can help. Our firm has the experience and tenacity to deal with insurance companies and defense attorneys who will make an attempt to devalue or eliminate your injury claim. Call us today for a free consultation and comprehensive evaluation of your Missouri truck accident claim.
