3 Common Defects that Can Cause a Truck Collision
Whether it is busy city streets or crowded highways, Oklahoma City is a fast-moving thoroughfare for thousands upon thousands of vehicles. Numerous factors such as distracted driving, impaired driving and lack of experience can lead to serious collisions with catastrophic costs.
Due to improper maintenance, poor installation, substandard materials or faulty construction, equipment defects can cause a motor vehicle collision with severe, often deadly, consequences. While every collision is a combination of unique factors, there are numerous types of equipment failures that are not uncommon elements in a truck crash, including:
Brake failure: The brakes on enormous commercial trucks are responsible for slowing, stopping and preventing an 80,000-pound tractor trailer from crashing into traffic. Unfortunately, defective brakes, brakes that are out of adjustment or brakes on a poor maintenance schedule can fail. When the brakes on an 18-wheeler are not working properly, it can be nearly impossible for a driver to stop in time or swerve to avoid a devastating collision.
Tire blowout: Even though a truck having 18 wheels might seem excessive, they all have key roles in control, redundancy, stopping power and weight distribution. When a tire fails, it can create a dangerous cascade of events. A tire blowout can result from overinflation, underinflation or loads over the weight limit. If the trucking company fails to perform regular checks and proper maintenance, the tires could fail leading to an out-of-control truck.
Faulty steering controls: In a large truck, the steering system is an intricate, complex series of mechanisms and joints. Whether it is undetected damage, wear-and-tear or defective parts, if the steering system fails at high speeds, around traffic or on a corner, the 18-wheeler can cause devastating collisions.
The trucking company must adhere to a rigorous maintenance schedule with these large trucks. Additionally, the driver remains the primary person responsible for noting a dip in performance or a mechanical issue the company must address. Failing to identify or correct mistakes, faulty machinery, or defective parts can lead to catastrophic truck collisions.