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Brake Failure Truck Accident Lawyers

Brake failure in trucks is a serious concern and can lead to catastrophic accidents and loss of lives. While it is difficult to determine an exact number or percentage of how common brake failure is in trucks, it’s well established that it does occur. The frequency of brake failure can vary depending on several factors, including the truck’s age, maintenance practices, driving conditions, and driver behavior.

Brake failure in trucks can happen for various reasons. One of the common causes is worn-out brake components such as brake pads, rotors, or brake lines. Over time, these parts can deteriorate, causing decreased braking performance or complete failure.

Another reason for brake failure is inadequate brake fluid levels or contaminated brake fluid, which can impact the overall functionality of the braking system. Additionally, mechanical issues like faulty brake calipers or master cylinders can contribute to brake failure.

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to mitigate the risk of brake failure. Truck owners and operators must follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for routine brake inspections, fluid checks, and part replacements. This includes replacing brake pads, rotors, and brake lines as professionals recommend or after a certain mileage.

Causes of Brake Failure in Trucks

Brake failures in trucks can be attributed to several common causes, posing a significant risk for both the driver and other passenger vehicles. One of the primary causes is brake fade, which occurs when the braking system overheats and loses its effectiveness. This can be caused by continuous and heavy braking, such as when driving downhill for extended periods. As the brake components heat up, the friction between the brake pads and rotors decreases, resulting in diminished stopping power.

Another common cause is brake fluid contamination. Brake fluid plays a critical role in how the braking system functions by transmitting the pressure exerted on the brake pedal to the brake calipers, which then compress the brake pads onto the rotors. However, if the brake fluid becomes contaminated with water, air, or debris, it can lead to a reduction in hydraulic pressure, resulting in brake failures. Contamination can occur due to improper maintenance, prolonged usage without fluid replacement, or exposure to moisture or dirt.

Worn-out brake components are also a prevalent cause of brake failures. Over time, the brake pads and rotors experience normal wear and tear due to repeated friction. However, failure to regularly inspect and replace these components can lead to reduced braking performance.

The brake pads may become too thin, compromising their ability to generate sufficient friction for effective braking, while the rotors may become warped or corroded, resulting in uneven braking force and vibration. Similar wear and tear can also affect other components of the braking system, such as brake hoses, calipers, or master cylinders, which, if left unaddressed, can contribute to brake failures in trucks.

Common Injuries Sustained from Brake Failure Accidents

Truck brake failure accidents can lead to severe injuries and fatalities due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Here are some injuries that can be sustained in such accidents:

  • Whiplash and spinal injuries. When a truck’s brakes fail, it may collide with other vehicles or objects suddenly and with extreme force. This can cause the vehicles’ occupants to experience a sudden jolting of the head and neck, which can result in sprains, strains, and even more serious spinal injuries.
  • Broken bones. The impact of a truck crash due to brake failure can cause occupants of a passenger vehicle to be forcefully thrown around the inside of the car or crushed by the collision. This can lead to broken bones, fractures, dislocations, and other severe musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The forceful impact involved in truck brake failure accidents can cause the head to strike against objects or surfaces within the vehicle. This can result in traumatic brain injuries such as concussions, contusions, or even more severe forms of brain damage that may lead to long-term cognitive impairments or disabilities.
  • Internal injuries. In some cases, the sudden rear-end collision caused by brake failure can cause occupants to be forcefully thrown against the vehicle’s interior, leading to internal injuries. These injuries can include ruptured organs, internal bleeding, or damage to vital organs, including the lungs, heart, liver, or spleen.
  • Burns and lacerations. Brake failure accidents may also increase the risk of fires or explosions, particularly if the truck is carrying hazardous materials. In these cases, occupants of passenger vehicles may sustain burns, lacerations, or other injuries due to contact with flames, hot surfaces, or shattered glass from the accident.

It is important to note that the severity of these injuries can vary depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the angle of the collision, the use of seat belts, and the overall safety features of cars involved in the accident.

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention following a brake failure truck accident, even if you don’t feel like you were hurt. Many injuries don’t materialize until days or weeks later, and a medical evaluation is crucial to assess and treat any potential injuries. After you have received a medical checkup, make your next call to Torgenson Law.

Our brake failure truck accident lawyers will investigate the details of the incident to determine fault and liability. We then work with you to identify the best path forward to receive compensation for your injuries and damages.

Who Is Liable for Truck Brake Failure in Arizona?

Determining liability can involve multiple parties when a truck brake failure accident occurs in Arizona. Generally, liability will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident and the applicable laws and regulations governing commercial trucks.

The following are potential parties that might be held liable for an Arizona truck accident:

  • Truck driver. The truck driver is often the first party examined for liability in a brake failure accident. If the driver failed to properly inspect or maintain the brakes or ignored warning signs of a brake issue, they might be held responsible for the accident.
  • Trucking company. The trucking company that employs the driver has a legal duty to ensure that their trucks are properly maintained and inspected. If the company failed to maintain the brakes or neglected to address known issues, they could be held responsible for the accident.
  • Brake manufacturer. In some cases, a brake failure accident may be caused by a defective brake component. If a brake part, such as the pads, shoes, or hydraulic system, was faulty or malfunctioned due to a manufacturing defect, the brake manufacturer could be held accountable for the accident.
  • Maintenance provider. If the trucking company outsourced the maintenance and inspection of its fleet to a third-party provider, that service provider may be liable if they improperly serviced the brakes or negligently overlooked any issues.
  • Government agencies. Occasionally, liability can fall on government agencies responsible for road maintenance and safety. The agency in charge could be partially liable if a poorly maintained road or insufficient signage contributed to the accident.

Determining liability in a truck brake failure accident requires a thorough investigation, examination of maintenance records, inspection of the truck, and sometimes interviews with experts and industry professionals. It is essential to consult with legal professionals specializing in brake failure truck accidents to analyze the specific circumstances and identify responsible parties accurately.

Call Torgenson Law Today for a Case Review

If you or a family member has been injured or damaged in an accident with a truck with failing brakes, call the Arizona truck accident lawyers who have represented thousands of Arizona drivers. For over two decades, Torgenson Law has fought to protect the rights of Arizona accident victims.

Our entire team is focused on getting you justice for injuries caused by the negligence of others. For a free case evaluation, reach out to us online or call us at 602-726-0747 to get started on your road to recovery.

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