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Investigating mechanical failures in commercial truck accidents

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2025 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Commercial truck accidents can cause costly property damage, severe injuries, and intense emotional distress. While driver error is a common cause, mechanical failures also play a role in many crashes. Investigating mechanical issues after a crash is an important step in determining what went wrong.

Understanding common mechanical failures in commercial trucks

Many truck accidents in New Jersey happen due to problems with the vehicle itself. Some common mechanical failures include:

  • Brake failure: Large trucks rely on strong braking systems to stop safely. Worn-out brake pads, faulty air brake systems, or poor maintenance can cause a truck to lose braking power, leading to rear-end collisions or runaway truck accidents.
  • Tire blowouts: Worn-out or underinflated tires are a major safety risk. A sudden blowout can make a truck driver lose control, causing the truck to swerve or roll over.
  • Steering and suspension issues: A poorly maintained steering system or suspension may cause the driver to struggle to control the vehicle. This can be especially dangerous at high speeds or on busy highways.
  • Transmission and engine problems: Mechanical failures in the engine or transmission can cause a vehicle to stall or lose power. This can lead to accidents if the truck stops suddenly in traffic.

When any of a truck’s key parts fail, the results can be devastating, even causing death. In fact, 9% of fatal accidents in New Jersey involve large trucks, highlighting the importance of attention to mechanical issues.

Investigating mechanical failures after a truck accident

After a commercial truck accident, investigators from insurance companies and legal teams work to find out whether mechanical issues played a role. They inspect the truck’s parts, maintenance records, and repair history. If a failed component caused the crash, investigators may look into whether it was because of poor maintenance, defective parts, or improper repairs.

Accident reports and black box data from the truck can provide clues about how the failure happened. Investigators also check if the trucking company followed maintenance rules. If they find violations, this could suggest that the accident was preventable.

Understanding the causes of truck accidents helps improve safety for everyone on the road. If a collision does occur, claimants can investigate the situation to determine the causes and hold the responsible parties liable for damages. 

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