Most Common Accidents Caused By Truck Defects And Malfunctions

When you’re driving a truck, you have a big responsibility not just to transport goods, but also safeguard the lives around you. To achieve these, it’s vital to prevent accidents caused by defective truck parts, lurking silently but capable of turning an ordinary drive into a life-altering calamity.

Accidents stemming from malfunctions and defective parts can yield catastrophic consequences. According to Forbes, 523,796 accidents involving large trucks have been reported in the United States in 2021.

Santa Ana Truck Accident Attorney Michael Ayaz says that the solution to lower down these truck accidents is not to wait for disaster to strike, but to master truck safety through knowledge, vigilance, and proactive measures.

Fasten your seatbelt now and let’s take a look at the most common defects and malfunctions that pose potential road hazards.

Brake Malfunctions

Brake malfunctions are a nightmare scenario, capable of leading to potentially catastrophic accidents. When brakes fail, panic ensues as the driver grapples to regain control of the truck. Brake malfunctions frequently result in devastating injuries and, in severe cases, fatalities.

Beyond the immediate physical harm, brake malfunctions can bring about massive medical bills and the burden of chronic pain, which may last for months or even a lifetime. 

Regular brake maintenance and inspections are essential to prevent such malfunctions. You also need to make sure that you are mentally alert when driving so that you can protect other people in the event of a brake malfunction.

If you look at how many people die in car accidents every year, you will understand that impaired driving is one of the leading causes of car and truck accidents. A brake malfunction and an impaired driver can potentially put tens of lives at risk, and impact hundreds more lives, so make sure you are always mentally alert and make conscious choices when driving.

Tire Blowouts

Sudden tire blowouts are a major concern for truck safety, often leading to severe accidents and injuries. Preventing tire blowouts is essential. Here are key points to keep in mind:

1. Do Regular Maintenance: Prioritize consistent tire maintenance, including monitoring tire pressure, regular rotation and conducting regular inspections.

2. Timely Replacement: Replace worn-out tires promptly to avoid blowout risks. Proper tread depth is crucial for safe and effective tires.

3. Proactive Training: Train drivers to recognize early warning signs of tire damage, such as bulges, cracks, or excessive wear. Encourage prompt reporting of issues.

4. Quality Tires: Invest in high-quality, application-specific tires designed for trucking needs. The right tires designed for specific truck applications can also minimize the chances of blowouts.

By taking these proactive measures, drivers and fleet operators can significantly enhance truck safety and prevent accidents caused by tire blowouts.

Steering System Failures

When the steering system fails, it can lead to serious accidents and put both the truck driver and other road users at risk. Imagine losing control of a massive truck while traveling at high speeds on the highway – it’s a nightmare scenario that no one wants to experience. 

Steering system failures can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out components, faulty power steering pumps, or even improper maintenance. 

With regular inspections and maintenance you can identify and address any potential issues before they turn into major problems. 

Engine Malfunctions

Engine malfunctions can jeopardize the safety of trucks and pose a significant risk to both drivers and other road users. When an engine malfunctions, it can lead to sudden loss of power, stalling, or even complete failure.

This can result in the truck unexpectedly slowing down or stopping in the middle of the road, causing potential accidents and traffic congestion. Moreover, engine malfunctions can also lead to fires or explosions, especially if there’s a fuel leak or a problem with the electrical system.

These incidents can be catastrophic, causing severe injuries or even fatalities. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent engine malfunctions and ensure the safe operation of trucks on the road. It’s essential to address any engine issues promptly and have them repaired by qualified professionals to avoid potential accidents and maintain road safety.

Faulty Lighting and Electrical Systems

The importance of a well-functioning lighting and electrical system cannot be overstated. These systems are the lifelines that ensure visibility on the road, particularly during nighttime travels and adverse weather conditions. When they fail, the consequences can be dire.

Dim or malfunctioning headlights, taillights, or brake lights can compromise your truck’s visibility to other drivers, substantially increasing the risk of accidents.

Malfunctioning electrical systems can lead to unexpected power failures, affecting critical functions such as the horn, windshield wipers, or even the engine.

Regularly inspecting and repairing any issues with your truck’s lighting and electrical systems can help prevent accidents caused by poor visibility or sudden loss of control. 

Conclusion

The key to a safer, more secure road lies in adopting regular inspections, proactive maintenance, and timely repairs not just for trucks, but all types of vehicles. Don’t delay or skimp on your vehicle’s maintenance, doing so doesn’t just put you in danger but also pose significant risk to other people.