How Does Poor Truck Maintenance Lead to Accidents in NJ?

While human error is often the culprit behind big rig crashes, there are instances in which mechanical issues are to blame. When the appropriate parties fail to uphold their legal duty to properly repair trucks in a timely fashion, the chances of a collision leading to catastrophic injuries increase significantly. If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries due to a truck that was improperly maintained, it’s crucial to understand your rights. Please continue reading to learn how poor truck maintenance leads to accidents and how a competent Morris County Truck Accident Attorney can help you hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

What is the Purpose of the FMCSA?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces safety regulations that govern the trucking industry. These standards aim to minimize the potential risks of accidents. However, when truck drivers, trucking companies, and other relevant parties disregard these regulations, they increase the chances of an accident.

The FMCSA requires each motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all commercial motor vehicels under its control. Every driver must complete vehicle inspections before operating the vehicle and at the end of the day. These inspections are critical. If a safety issue is detected, the problem must be repaired before the vehicle can return to the road. Ultiamtely, truck inspections are required to ensure that trucks meet stringent safety standards, protecting not only the driver and their cargo but also those sharing the roadways.

It’s crucial to note that vehicle maintenance includes cargo securement. All cargo that is loaded must be appropriately secured during transportation in accordance with FMSCA regulations. It’s mandatory to ensure cargo loads don’t obscure a driver’s view and meet weight requirements. Cargo loads must have adequately fastened tie-downs to prevent movement while navigating the roadways.

How Does Poor Truck Maintenance Contribute to Accidents in NJ?

As with any other vehicle, truck maintenance is critical. Mechanical issues in a vehicle weighing tens of thousands of pounds can be hazardous, as you can imagine. When a truck malfunctions, a driver can quickly lose control of the vehicle. Even if they maintain control, truck pieces can fly off. If cargo is loaded and there is a weight distribution issue, it could cause the vehicle to tip over. Trucks are composed of various pieces of machinery that rely on each other to function safely. Therefore, truck drivers and companies must perform routine maintenance to minimize the risk of accidents.

Unfortunately, trucking accidents caused by a lack of maintenance typically have devastating consequences. Those involved often wind up with astronomical medical expenses, and their injuires render them incapable of working while they heal. If this is the case, please don’t hesitate to contact Lutz Injury Law to discuss your legal options.