Did Improper Maintenance Cause Your Truck Accident? We Can Help.
Truck accidents are some of the most complex of Washington motor vehicle accidents. This is due to the many potential factors that may lead to a crash, including improper maintenance.
When trucking companies fail to keep their vehicles maintained, serious accidents may occur and lead to life-changing injuries. The experienced Seattle truck accident lawyers at Pendergast Law understand the challenges you might face when navigating the aftermath of a truck accident. We will investigate the true cause of your accident and fight to protect your rights so you can seek the compensation you deserve to help you heal.
What Are Common Maintenance-Related Issues That Can Lead To Truck Accidents?
Improper maintenance can impact the way trucks function on the road. The most common types of issues that arise from improper maintenance include:
- Brake failure
- Tire blowouts
- Defective lights
- Steering system failure
- Failed suspension
- Inoperable windshield wipers
- Cracked windshields
- Cracked or missing mirrors
- Missing reflectors or lights
- Worn tires
- Parking brake failures
- Faulty headlights or taillights
Any of these issues can impact a driver’s ability to stay safe while on the road, which can lead to a devastating accident.
How Does Poor Maintenance Contribute To Truck Accidents?
Poor maintenance of trucks can cause serious mechanical failures and malfunctions, including brake failure, steering equipment defects and tire blowouts. When these issues occur, drivers can lose control of the truck and end up in a crash with other vehicles on the road. Regular maintenance and inspection of trucks is necessary to ensure their safety for drivers and other commuters.
What Are The Legal Responsibilities Of Trucking Companies Regarding Vehicle Maintenance?
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are regularly inspected and maintained according to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. When trucking companies fail to comply with commercial vehicle safety, they can be held liable for their part in Washington truck accidents.
What Is The Role Of The FMCSA In Truck Maintenance?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict standards for the operation of commercial vehicles. This includes establishing and enforcing regulations for truck maintenance and repair, developing safety programs to promote safe maintenance practices and training for both drivers and mechanics, and enforcing these regulations by conducting inspections and audits of trucking companies to check for compliance. FMCSA regulations are meant to help reduce the risk trucks pose to other drivers and keep people safe while on the road.
Can I Sue If I Was Injured In A Truck Accident Due To Lack Of Maintenance?
Yes. If you can prove that the trucking company’s negligence in maintaining the truck caused the accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Evidence Is Needed To Prove A Maintenance-Related Truck Accident Claim In Washington?
A thorough investigation by legal and technical experts can help identify maintenance failures as the cause of a truck accident. Collecting evidence such as maintenance records, inspection reports and expert testimony can help demonstrate that a trucking company failed in their duty to keep their vehicle adequately maintained for the road.
What Types Of Damage Can Victims Of Truck Accidents Cause By Poor Maintenance Claim?
If you have been injured in a truck accident due to improper maintenance, you are entitled to claim compensation that can cover the following:
- Current and future medical expenses related to your injury
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries that are life-altering. You deserve to seek compensation that considers the full scope of how your injury has impacted your life.
Why Is It Important To Act Promptly After A Truck Accident Involving Maintenance Issues?
There is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, so it’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your right to pursue compensation. In Washington, you have three years from the date of the accident to file your personal injury claim. The sooner you can take action, the sooner your lawyer can begin investigating the accident, collecting evidence and building your case.
Discuss Your Case With Our Seattle Truck Accident Attorneys Today
The way improper truck maintenance can result in catastrophic truck accidents cannot be taken lightly. Our lawyers are committed to navigating cases regarding negligent maintenance and fight to seek trucking company liability for the harm done against you.
Call our Washington personal injury firm today at 888-539-9211 to schedule a free consultation or email us online to get started.