Every day, thousands of semi-trucks travel across California highways, carrying goods that keep our economy moving. With the surge in online shopping and demand for fast deliveries, these massive vehicles are more present than ever. But with their constant presence comes an increased risk of devastating big rig accidents.
At Hillstone Law, we understand the dangers of sharing the road with poorly maintained trucks. Proper maintenance is not just good practice — it’s essential for safety. Unfortunately, neglecting critical repairs often leads to catastrophic accidents. Here are the three most common maintenance issues that put motorists at risk.
1. Tire Failures
Tires are a semi-truck’s only connection to the road, making them crucial for safety. When tire maintenance is neglected, accidents are far more likely. The most frequent tire issues linked to big rig crashes include:
- Blowouts that cause sudden loss of control
- Tread separations that lead to skidding or rollovers
- Low tire pressure, which reduces stability and increases stopping distance
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 600 fatalities in 2020 were tied to tire-related crashes. Given the size and weight of an 18-wheeler, a single tire failure can cause catastrophic injuries to multiple drivers on the road.
2. Brake System Failures
Stopping a fully loaded tractor-trailer is no easy task. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that big rigs need 20 to 40 percent more stopping distance than smaller vehicles.
When brakes aren’t properly maintained, that distance only increases. Common causes of brake-related crashes include:
- Worn or damaged brake pads
- Faulty brake lines
- Malfunctioning rotors or calipers
Because these massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, a brake failure often results in multi-car collisions, severe injuries, or fatalities. Regular inspections and timely repairs are critical to preventing such tragedies.
3. Mechanical & Electrical Failures
Beyond tires and brakes, semi-trucks rely on complex mechanical and electrical systems. Issues with engines, steering components, or onboard electronics can quickly lead to accidents. Examples include:
- Steering malfunctions that cause a driver to lose control
- Engine problems that lead to sudden stalls in high-speed traffic
- Electrical failures, such as non-working lights, that reduce visibility and communication with other drivers
These failures are preventable with consistent maintenance. Unfortunately, when trucking companies cut corners to save money, they put everyone else on the road at risk.
Legal Support After a Big Rig Accident
Even when drivers do everything right, maintenance issues can cause life-changing accidents. Victims of big rig crashes often face serious injuries, lost wages, and overwhelming medical bills.
At Hillstone Law, our experienced California truck accident attorneys hold negligent trucking companies accountable. We investigate whether poor maintenance contributed to the crash and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Call us today at (844) 335-3271 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
When a trucking company’s negligence puts lives in danger, Hillstone Law stands ready to protect yours.
