How Mechanical And Maintenance Issues Increase Atlanta Truck Accident Risks
Commercial trucks travel thousands of miles weekly, making regular maintenance and inspections essential for safety. Unfortunately, mechanical failures caused by poor maintenance, defective parts, or negligent trucking companies frequently contribute to serious truck accidents in Atlanta.
If you or a loved one gets injured in a truck accident and you suspect mechanical failure, proving liability will likely be challenging. Our Atlanta truck accident lawyers provide trusted representation to clients in these cases and explain common maintenance issues that increase crash risks and your rights to compensation.
Common Mechanical Failures That Increase Atlanta Truck Accident Risks
Large trucks require regular inspections and repairs to ensure safe operation. However, some trucking companies cut corners to save money, and drivers may ignore warning signs of mechanical problems.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) advises that the following are among common mechanical failures that contribute to truck crashes:
- Brake failure: Worn-out brake pads, air brake malfunctions, and hydraulic issues can prevent a truck from stopping in time.
- Tire blowouts: Underinflated, overused, or defective tires may cause truckers to lose control of their rigs, leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents.
- Steering system failures: Faulty steering mechanisms can make it impossible for a driver to maneuver safely.
- Faulty lights and signals: Broken headlights, brake lights, or turn signals increase the risk of rear-end and side-impact crashes.
- Transmission and engine issues: Sudden power failures or transmission problems can cause unexpected stalling or loss of control.
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) emphasizes that proper truck maintenance is crucial for preventing catastrophic crashes, but not all trucking companies follow federal and state safety requirements.
Who Is Liable for Truck Accidents In Atlanta Caused by Mechanical Failures?
Trucking companies and drivers are subject to regular inspections and must make needed repairs under the Georgia Code and federal FMCSA regulations. When they fail to do so, multiple parties can be held accountable in a claim. This includes:
- The trucking company, for failing to properly inspect, repair, or maintain their fleet;
- The truck driver, for ignoring required pre-trip inspections or continued driving despite mechanical issues;
- Maintenance providers, such as if a third-party mechanic performed faulty repairs or skipped inspections;
- Parts manufacturers, when defective brakes, tires, or other faulty parts contribute to a crash.
Proving mechanical failure liability requires detailed investigations, reviewing maintenance records, and obtaining expert testimony, which is why working with an experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyer is critical.
Our Experienced Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers Fight To Get You Compensation
If you get injured in an Atlanta truck accident due to mechanical failure or poor maintenance, you are entitled to compensation for your losses. However, trucking companies and insurers fight these claims aggressively. To protect your rights, get Shiver Hamilton, LLC on your side.
Our experienced legal team fights to get you the maximum compensation. We represent clients in Savannah, St. Simons Island, Alpharetta, Decatur, Johns Creek, Jonesboro, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, and all of DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our Atlanta truck accident lawyers.
Sources:
fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/research-and-analysis/report-congress-large-truck-crash-causation-study
dot.ga.gov/GDOT/pages/Safety.aspx
dps.georgia.gov/document/publication/commercial-motor-vehicle-traffic-codes-safety-rules/download
