Who Could Be Liable for a Truck Accident Caused by Brake Failure?

Roughly 10 percent of large truck crashes can be attributed to vehicle malfunctions. Some of the most common examples include shifting cargo and defective tires. When a malfunction affects a truck’s brakes, the consequences are likely to be catastrophic. Tractor-trailers take much longer than passenger vehicles to decelerate as it is, and brake problems only increase the stopping distance.

Truck accidents that involve malfunctioning brakes tend to occur at high speeds, which only serves to enhance the force of impact and the severity of any resulting injuries. Victims often incur exorbitant medical bills, and many cannot return to work for weeks or even months while they recover.

If you or someone you love was injured in such a crash, there are several parties who might be liable for your damages, such as:

1. The Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer 

If the brakes failed because they were defective, you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the vehicle or parts manufacturer. Since proving the brakes were defective can be challenging—and massive corporations like auto manufacturers have the resources to fight every claim that comes their way—it is wise to seek legal counsel before commencing such a claim. 

2. The Maintenance Contractor 

Motor carriers often rely on third-party contractors to maintain their vehicles. If these contractors fail to inspect the brakes adequately or to replace them as needed, they could be financially responsible for any accidents that result. 

3. The Motor Carrier 

If a motor carrier fails to keep up with routine maintenance, they could be liable for accidents caused by vehicle malfunctions, regardless of whether they perform the work themselves or rely on a third party. At the end of the day, trucking companies have a duty of care to maintain their vehicles to a reasonable standard. That means even if they rely on a contractor, they must track each rig’s maintenance diligently and schedule appointments as needed, as opposed to waiting for the mechanic to follow up with them.

4. The Trucker 

Truckers serve as the first line of defense when it comes to preventing any kind of collision because they’re the ones who are actually behind the wheel. While commercial drivers may not necessarily be responsible for maintaining the vehicle’s brakes, they have a duty to pull over safely and arrange for maintenance if their rig is not responding as it should. If something is clearly wrong with a vehicle’s braking system but the trucker continues driving anyway, he or she—or the motor carrier that employs him or her—could be liable in the event of a wreck. 

Call 800-770-7008 to Speak with a Truck Accident Lawyer in Minneapolis 

If you were hurt in a collision with a commercial driver through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation for all resulting damages. To determine the most strategic way to proceed, contact a truck accident attorney at Bradshaw & Bryant.

Our personal injury lawyers are proud to help clients fight for the compensation they need to make their lives whole again. Call 800-770-7008 or use our Online Contact Form to set up a free case evaluation with a personal injury attorney in Minneapolis