Winchester Truck Accident Attorneys for Improper Maintenance

Trusted Lawyers for Accidents Caused by Poorly Maintained Commercial Trucks in Winchester, Virginia

18-wheelers and other large commercial trucks require frequent maintenance to ensure that they can operate safely. If a truck is not properly maintained, critical parts may fail, leading to catastrophic truck accidents. When a collision occurs, determining whether improper maintenance contributed to the crash is essential. When the causes of the crash are identified, steps can be taken to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC provides legal help and representation for people who have been injured in truck accidents. Our attorneys will work to determine whether maintenance-related issues caused or contributed to a collision. If a trucking company or another party neglected to perform the necessary upkeep, we will work to ensure that they are held liable for the damages suffered by truck accident victims.

How Our Lawyers Can Help With Maintenance-Related Truck Accident Claims

At Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC, we have experience handling complex truck accident cases, and our attorneys understand the federal and state regulations governing commercial vehicles. As we investigate the circumstances surrounding a commercial vehicle accident, we can:

• Analyze inspection and maintenance records to determine whether repairs were not performed when necessary.
• Consult with mechanics and industry experts to determine whether the failure of different parts contributed to the crash.
• Gather black box data, dashcam footage, and other evidence to establish liability.
• Hold negligent trucking companies, mechanics, or parts manufacturers accountable.

Common Truck Components That May Fail Without Proper Maintenance

Many parts of an 18-wheeler require regular servicing to prevent breakdowns and mechanical failures. If these components are not properly maintained, truck drivers may encounter dangerous malfunctions while driving. Some of the most critical parts that require proper maintenance include:

Brakes

A truck's braking system is one of its most essential safety features. If brake pads, drums, or air brake systems are not maintained, a truck driver may struggle to stop in time, leading to devastating rear-end collisions or runaway truck accidents.

Tires

Worn or underinflated tires increase the risk of blowouts, which can cause a truck driver to lose control of their vehicle. Regular tire inspections are necessary to ensure they meet safety standards and can withstand long hauls. Tires should be replaced or repaired when necessary to ensure that they will provide the proper traction for handling and braking.

Steering and Suspension

If a truck's steering system is not in good condition, the driver may struggle to maintain control, especially at high speeds or when maneuvering around curves. Problems with a truck's suspension could throw off the vehicle's balance, leading to rollovers or other dangerous accidents.

Lights and Signals

Properly functioning headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are essential for communicating with other drivers. Faulty or burned-out lights can lead to accidents, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.

Transmission and Engine

Transmission issues can prevent a truck driver from shifting gears properly, potentially leading to sudden breakdowns in the middle of traffic. Engine problems may cause stalls, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions, or an engine may even catch fire, potentially endangering other vehicles.

Trailer Coupling and Hitch Systems

If a truck's trailer is not securely attached, it may become detached while in motion, creating a dangerous roadway hazard. Regular inspections of coupling mechanisms are necessary to prevent these types of incidents.

Who May Be Held Responsible for Truck Maintenance Failures?

When a truck accident is caused by poor maintenance, multiple parties may be held liable depending on who was responsible for the upkeep of the vehicle. Potentially responsible parties may include:

Trucking Companies

Commercial trucking companies are legally required to perform routine maintenance and ensure that their vehicles meet federal safety standards. If they fail to do so, and an accident occurs as a result, they may be held accountable.

Truck Drivers

Truck drivers must conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of their vehicles, and they should also monitor a truck during a trip and address any potential issues. If a driver notices a mechanical issue and fails to report it, they may be partially liable for a crash caused by that defect.

Maintenance and Repair Shops

Mechanics and repair facilities that service trucks are expected to perform the proper repairs at the right times, and they should also identify and correct potential safety hazards. If a truck has not been repaired correctly, or if essential maintenance has been overlooked, these entities may be responsible for truck accidents that occur as a result.

Parts Manufacturers

If a defective truck part contributes to an accident, the company that manufactured or sold the component may be held accountable. Manufacturing defects in brakes, tires, or steering systems can create hazardous conditions and lead to dangerous or deadly collisions.

Contact Our Winchester, VA Truck Accident Lawyer for Maintenance Failures

When defective parts or malfunctioning equipment is responsible for a truck accident in Winchester, Virginia, Parthemos, Curran, Buelow and Polizzi, PLLC can provide legal representation for victims. By conducting thorough investigations and working to hold trucking companies or other parties accountable, we help ensure that victims will be able to move forward after these devastating accidents. To discuss your case in a free consultation, contact us at 540-662-4222.