A tractor-trailer going through the Kansas City metropolitan area can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. Given their immense size, commercial trucks need well-functioning brakes to bring them to a safe stop. Brake failures cause too many truck accidents. These crashes are generally preventable with proper, proactive maintenance. Here, our Kansas City trucking accident lawyer highlights the danger of brake problems and explains the federal safety regulations.
Poor Brakes Can Cause a Semi-Truck Accident
Large commercial trucks pose an inherent safety risk. It is imperative that trucking companies ensure that the vehicle’s brakes are in proper working order. Faulty or inadequately maintained brakes can drastically impair a truck’s ability to stop or slow down—especially in adverse weather conditions. Brake problems can lead to a catastrophic collision. A truck may collide with the rear-end of another (smaller) vehicle, or the trucker may lose control of it and end up jackknifing.
FMCSA Regulations: Brake Inspection and Brake Maintenance
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets vehicle safety standards for commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks. All tractor-trailers that operate in interstate commerce—which includes the majority of the large commercial trucks that you see in the Kansas City metropolitan area—are required to comply with FMCSA standards. There are specific brake safety requirements (FMCSA 5.1.1 Brake Systems). Here are some key aspects of these regulations:
- Daily Inspection: Truck drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections to check for any visible issues with the brake system, such as air leaks, worn linings, and damaged rotors or drums.
- Repair of Issues: If an inspection reveals any brake problems, that matter needs to be repaired immediately. Even small issues with brakes are dangerous.
- Routine Maintenance: FMCSA requires detailed periodic maintenance of braking systems. Truck companies should replace worn components, lubricate necessary parts, and adjust brakes to ensure proper functionality.
- Annual Inspection: Certified inspectors must conduct thorough annual examinations of a truck’s braking systems as part of a more comprehensive vehicle inspection.
- Record Keeping: Truck companies must keep detailed records of all brake maintenance and inspection activity.
A Negligent Truck Company Can Be Held Liable for a Crash
Hurt in a crash caused by a commercial truck’s brake failures? You have the right to bring a claim for financial compensation. In both Missouri and Kansas, trucking companies can be held legally responsible for a crash caused by negligence. The failure to properly inspect and/or maintain a truck’s brakes is a form of negligence. Through a claim, injured victims can seek compensation for their damages, including vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our Kansas City truck accident lawyer has the skills and experience to help you prove fault.
Schedule a Free Case Review a Kansas City Truck Accident Attorney
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City truck accident lawyer provides aggressive advocacy to victims and families. Hurt in an eighteen-wheeler crash caused by bad brakes? Our team can help. Give us a call now or contact us online to arrange your no-fee, no-obligation. We proudly fight for justice for truck accident victims in the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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