Can Truck Accidents Be Caused By Faulty Equipment?
Large trucks such as tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers pose a great risk of harm to other roadway users in Colorado due to their size and weight. It is critical for trucking companies to ensure that every piece of equipment used to transport a load is in proper working condition. Faulty or poorly maintained truck equipment could fail, resulting in a catastrophic truck accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, a Fort Collins truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring you pursue the compensation you deserve while holding negligent parties accountable.
What Are Common Examples of Faulty Trucking Equipment?
The average commercial truck contains many different pieces of equipment that must all work seamlessly together to ensure a safe drive. A truck’s tires, brakes, engine, trailer hitches, safety chains, load tie-downs and countless other equipment must all be correctly installed and maintained. If even a single trucking component fails, it could trigger a disastrous traffic accident.
Examples of faulty trucking equipment include:
- Air brake system failures
- Tire blowouts
- Faulty electrical systems
- Steering system failures
- Failed hitches or coupling devices
- Engine failures
- Load securement problems
- Missing emergency equipment
Faulty trucking equipment can lead to dangerous mechanical failures, such as a truck that a driver is unable to stop or control. Cargo shifts, truck rollover accidents, jackknife accidents and lost cargo loads may occur due to equipment malfunctions or defects.
Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident Caused By Faulty Equipment in Colorado?
The federal government has laws regarding the use and inspection of motor carrier parts and equipment. These laws state that a vehicle may not be driven unless the driver has conducted an inspection and is satisfied that its parts and accessories are in good working order. If a truck driver skips this required inspection or is not careful enough, the driver could be held responsible for a subsequent truck accident that occurs due to faulty equipment.
Trucking companies can often be held vicariously liable for the actions of their truck drivers and employees. If there is evidence that a truck driver violated federal trucking equipment laws, the trucking company could be held financially responsible instead of the individual driver. The company may also be liable for its own mistakes, such as failing to properly maintain its trucks or ignoring equipment safety regulations.
Another possibility after a truck accident caused by faulty equipment is a product liability claim filed for defective auto parts. If a piece of truck equipment fails due to a defect in its design, manufacture or marketing, the manufacturing company or distribution center could be held responsible. Often, these cases do not require proof of negligence or fault.
When to Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Fort Collins
Filing a claim or lawsuit after a truck accident in Colorado could lead to financial compensation for various losses, including your medical bills and property damage repairs. Most truck accident cases in Colorado can benefit from the representation of a qualified personal injury attorney.
Commercial trucking accidents involve many complex laws and issues that are absent from typical car accident cases. A case involving faulty or defective truck equipment, for example, may involve federal safety regulations or product liability laws. It is especially important to talk to a lawyer if you or a loved one suffered catastrophic injuries, as you may deserve more compensation than an insurance company is offering.
If you wish to seek justice for a recent crash that was caused by faulty truck equipment, contact an attorney at Cannon Law to start with a free consultation. We will analyze your situation to help you understand your legal rights.