18-Wheeler Mechanical Failures That Lead to Wrecks

Semi-Truck Mechanical Complications That Cause Wrecks

As you can imagine, big trucks have certain issues that the average commercial vehicle will never have. As one of the best vehicle accident lawyer in West Houston, we understand that common 18-wheeler mechanical issues include overloaded cargo, tire problems, and mechanical errors. Tractor-trailer problems can lead to serious and fatal accidents on the road. Every year, there are approximately 5,000 18-wheeler accidents in the United States. A big truck is complex, dangerous, and challenging to operate. It is essential that semi-truck drivers know the more common failures that can lead to a wreck.

Big Truck Mechanical Failure Research. The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute conducted a study to investigate the relationship between accident risk and mechanical complications. Researchers found that almost 55% of trucks involved in wrecks had at least one mechanical error. Additionally, 30% of vehicles had major conditions that should have rendered those vehicles out of service.

Most Common Mechanical Failures on Commercial Trucks

Brakes and Lighting

The most severe violations concerned the truck’s brakes and lighting systems. Thirty percent of vehicles in accidents did not meet federal regulations on braking systems. These systems did not:

• give appropriate braking force,
• decelerate at a proper rate, or
• meet the automatic brake adjustment systems requirements.

Tire Issues

Tire issues are another common cause of 18-wheeler failure. Big trucks have many tires. If one tire has a problem, the other tires can support the vehicle until the driver fixes the problem. However, it is still crucial that drivers and companies keep tires up to federal standards. Accidents can arise when:

• There is a tire design flaw
• The tires are not properly maintained
• The owner does not inspect the tires regularly

Most often, tire and brake issues are the result of negligence. With so much at stake in the event of an 18-wheeler failure, drivers and companies should inspect their vehicles thoroughly and frequently.

Did an 18-Wheeler Accident Leave You Injured? Let Us Help

Your 18-wheeler accident could be the result of mechanic, driver, or manufacturer negligence. The Stephens Law Firm can get to the bottom of your injury or wrongful death case in Texas. With over 30 years of experience, you can trust Joe Stephens to get results.

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in West Houston and Across Texas:

West Houston Mechanical Failure Truck Accident Attorney

You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Law Firm

When your case requires the skill and knowledge of a seasoned Texas 18 wheeler collision lawyer in West Houston, Joe Stephens should be your first choice. Having tried over 100 verdict cases successfully, he has a stalwart reputation for working diligently for his clients, especially if those cases involve someone being killed, Joe is the perfect death attorney in West Houston to help you get the right compensation that you deserve. Cases involving big truck collisions can be very complex and present difficulty proving negligence of the truck driver, the trucking company, or both. Joe’s experience with these cases allows him to get right to the heart of the matter, his clients’ rights and owed compensation.