Commercial trucks are essential for transporting goods across the country, but their massive size makes them some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. When a fully loaded 80,000-pound truck experiences brake failure, the results can be catastrophic.
Brake system malfunctions are one of the leading causes of truck crashes, and they often stem from poor maintenance, mechanical defects, or driver negligence. Find out why brake failures happen, how they can be prevented, and who may be held liable when they cause devastating collisions.
If you were injured in a crash, contact TSR Injury Law today.
Why Truck Brakes Are So Vulnerable
Truck braking systems work under extreme pressure. They must stop vehicles weighing 20 to 30 times more than a typical passenger car. When a truck is heavily loaded, every component of its braking system faces greater stress.
Contributing factors include:
- Overheated brake drums or rotors
- Worn-out brake pads or linings
- Air pressure leaks in pneumatic systems
- Faulty brake adjustments
- Inadequate maintenance schedules
Even a small failure can cause a runaway truck or jackknife crash, putting everyone on the road in danger.
The Role of Overloading
Federal regulations limit how much weight a commercial truck can carry. When trucking companies exceed those limits to increase profits, the risk of brake failure skyrockets.
Excess weight means:
- Longer stopping distances
- Greater heat buildup during braking
- Increased strain on tires, axles, and hydraulic systems
In many accidents, overloaded trucks lose braking power while descending steep grades or navigating traffic, leading to catastrophic rear-end or multi-vehicle collisions.
Common Causes of Brake Failure
1. Poor Maintenance
Brakes require regular inspection and servicing. When trucking companies skip maintenance to save money, critical components wear out unnoticed.
2. Manufacturing Defects
Sometimes the brakes themselves are defective. Design flaws or faulty parts from the manufacturer can lead to sudden failure.
3. Negligent Repairs
Improperly performed repairs or installation of incorrect parts can compromise the entire braking system.
4. Driver Negligence
Truck drivers must inspect their brakes before every trip. Failing to report warning signs, such as pulling, grinding noises, or reduced response, can make them partly responsible for an accident.
Liability in Truck Brake Failure Accidents
Determining fault in these cases often involves multiple parties:
- The driver: for ignoring maintenance issues or overusing brakes on downhill grades.
- The trucking company: for neglecting inspections or exceeding weight limits.
- The maintenance provider: for performing substandard work.
- The brake manufacturer: for producing defective components.
An experienced attorney can analyze inspection logs, maintenance records, and federal compliance reports to pinpoint the source of negligence.
Federal Safety Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires:
- Regular brake inspections and maintenance logs
- Pre-trip checks by drivers
- Maximum weight limits based on axle configuration
- Immediate removal of unsafe vehicles from service
When companies violate these rules, they can face significant penalties and liability for resulting crashes.
Preventing Brake-Related Accidents
Truck operators and fleet managers can reduce risks through:
- Strict adherence to maintenance schedules
- Proper loading and weight distribution
- Use of high-quality brake components
- Training drivers to downshift rather than ride brakes on slopes
While these safety measures are well known, many companies cut corners to save time or money, a choice that can cost lives.
What Victims Can Recover
Accidents caused by brake failure can result in catastrophic injuries such as spinal damage, traumatic brain injury, or amputation. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Property damage
In fatal cases, families may pursue wrongful death claims for funeral costs and loss of companionship.
When truck brakes fail, the results are often tragic, and almost always preventable. Victims deserve accountability and justice. Holding negligent trucking companies and manufacturers responsible not only helps injured victims recover but also pushes the industry to prioritize safety.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck crash caused by brake failure, consult a qualified attorney who can investigate the case and fight for the compensation you deserve.