Las Vegas Trucking Maintenance Negligence
Trucking maintenance negligence—when trucking companies or drivers fail to keep trucks in safe operating condition—poses a significant threat to public safety, often leading to devastating accidents. If you have been injured in an accident caused by trucking maintenance negligence, an experienced Las Vegas truck accident lawyer can be your strongest advocate.
What is Trucking Maintenance Negligence?
Trucking maintenance negligence occurs when a trucking company, driver, or maintenance provider fails to perform regular inspections, repairs, or upkeep on a commercial vehicle. Federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) require trucking companies to adhere to strict maintenance and inspection standards to ensure that trucks are roadworthy and safe to operate. Key areas where negligence often occurs include:
Brake Systems
Malfunctioning or poorly maintained brakes are one of the leading causes of truck accidents. Due to the size and weight of trucks, brakes must be in top condition to safely stop the vehicle.
Tires
Worn or underinflated tires can lead to blowouts, loss of control, and rollovers, especially at high speeds.
Lights and Signals
Faulty headlights, brake lights, or turn signals can make it difficult for other drivers to predict a truck’s movements, increasing the risk of collisions.
Steering and Suspension Systems
Failure to maintain these systems can result in loss of control, particularly during turns or on uneven road surfaces.
Trailer Maintenance
Improperly secured or poorly maintained trailers can detach, causing catastrophic accidents.
Who is Liable for Accidents Caused by Trucking Maintenance Negligence?
When trucking maintenance negligence causes an accident, multiple parties may be held responsible:
- The Trucking Company: Companies are required to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained. Failure to perform routine inspections or repairs can make them liable.
- The Driver: If a driver neglects to perform required pre-trip and post-trip inspections, they may share responsibility for an accident.
- Maintenance Providers: Third-party companies hired to perform repairs or inspections can also be held accountable if their negligence contributed to the accident.
- Manufacturers: In rare cases, defective parts or equipment may play a role, making the manufacturer liable for the accident.
How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Maintenance-Related Truck Accident
Here is how they can help:
Investigating the Cause of the Accident
A lawyer will gather crucial evidence, such as maintenance logs, inspection reports, and repair records, to determine if maintenance negligence contributed to the accident. They may also consult with experts in truck mechanics or accident reconstruction to build a strong case.
Identifying Liable Parties
Your attorney will determine who is responsible for the negligence—whether it’s the trucking company, driver, maintenance provider, or a combination of parties.
Preserving Evidence
Trucking companies may attempt to destroy or withhold critical evidence, such as maintenance records or black box data. A lawyer can issue a spoliation letter to ensure that all relevant evidence is preserved.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Trucking companies and their insurers may try to shift blame onto you to minimize a payout. A skilled attorney will handle negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Pursuing Legal Action
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will file a lawsuit and represent you in court to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident caused by maintenance negligence, contact Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers. We offer free consultations, call (702) 384-1414 or message us online today.