Managing Partner
When a commercial truck’s brakes fail, the results can be devastating. Because tractor-trailers and other large trucks weigh many tons, even a minor mechanical problem can lead to catastrophic crashes. Brake issues are a leading cause of trucking accidents, and the victims are often left with severe injuries, financial stress, and long-term uncertainty.
Why Brake Failures Are So Dangerous
Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. If the brakes are not functioning properly, stopping distances increase dramatically. That extra time and distance can be the difference between a truck coming to a safe stop or plowing into cars, motorcycles, or pedestrians. Common results include:
- Multi-vehicle pileups on highways
- Jackknife accidents, where the trailer swings across lanes
- Rear-end collisions at high speeds
- Rollovers caused by uneven braking
These crashes frequently leave victims with broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, burns, or worse.
Maintenance Requirements for Trucking Companies
Federal and state laws require trucking companies to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition. Brakes must be inspected, maintained, and repaired on a regular schedule. Drivers are also supposed to conduct pre-trip inspections to spot problems before getting on the road.
Unfortunately, some companies cut corners. To save time or money, they may delay replacing brake pads, skip inspections, or use unqualified mechanics. When that happens, the risk to everyone on the road increases.
Federal Regulations on Truck Brakes
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has clear rules that govern commercial truck brakes. Some of the most important requirements include:
- Trucks must meet minimum braking performance standards.
- Braking systems must include automatic brake adjusters.
- Air brake systems must be inspected for leaks and wear.
- Records of maintenance and inspections must be kept and made available.
Failure to comply with these rules can put a company in violation of federal law, which can help prove liability if a crash occurs.
Who May Be Liable After a Brake Failure Accident?
Determining responsibility in a brake failure case is not always simple. Several parties may share liability, including:
- The trucking company for failing to maintain the vehicle properly.
- The driver, if inspections were skipped or warning signs ignored.
- The manufacturer, if the brake system had a dangerous defect.
- A repair shop or mechanic, if poor service caused the failure.
Holding the correct parties accountable often requires an investigation into maintenance records, driver logs, and mechanical inspections.
Legal Options for Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by brake failure, you have the right to pursue compensation. A personal injury claim can help recover damages for:
- Medical bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- In tragic cases, wrongful death
Because trucking companies and their insurers fight hard to minimize payouts, having an experienced legal team makes a significant difference.
How Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook Can Help
Our firm has decades of experience handling complex truck accident cases in California. We know how to uncover evidence of faulty maintenance, regulatory violations, and negligence. By working with accident reconstruction specialists and reviewing federal safety standards, we build strong cases that protect your rights and seek the full compensation you deserve.
Protecting Victims of Brake Failure Crashes
Brake failure in a commercial truck is not just a mechanical issue—it is a matter of safety for everyone sharing the road. When companies or drivers fail to uphold their responsibilities, innocent people suffer the consequences.
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook is here to stand by your side. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
FAQ
How can you tell if brake failure played a role in a truck crash?
Signs may include long skid marks, witness reports of smoke or burning odors, or inspection records showing worn or defective parts. Accident reconstruction experts often confirm brake problems after a collision.
Are trucking companies required to keep detailed brake maintenance records?
Yes. Federal law requires companies to document inspections and repairs. These records can be key evidence in proving whether a company ignored safety rules.
What steps should I take after a truck accident I believe was caused by brake failure?
Seek immediate medical care, call law enforcement, and try to preserve any evidenc, such as photos of the truck or roadway. Then, contact an attorney who can request records before they disappear.