Seeking Justice After Fatal Mechanical Failures
When a commercial truck experiences a catastrophic mechanical failure due to inadequate maintenance, innocent lives can be lost in an instant. These massive vehicles—weighing up to 80,000 pounds—require rigorous, systematic maintenance to operate safely on our roads. When trucking companies cut corners on safety inspections or repairs, the consequences are often deadly. If your loved one was killed in an accident caused by a poorly maintained commercial truck, you may be entitled to significant compensation through a wrongful death claim. At Dermer Law, we combine technical knowledge with legal expertise to help grieving families pursue justice against negligent trucking companies. Our commitment to “Clients. Not Cases.” means we provide compassionate support while fighting determinedly to hold all responsible parties accountable for these preventable tragedies.
Federal regulations require trucking companies to perform regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs on their vehicles. When companies neglect these crucial safety procedures to save money or keep trucks on the road generating revenue, they put everyone at risk and can be held liable for the fatal consequences of their negligence.
Common Maintenance Issues Leading to Fatal Truck Accidents
Poor maintenance can affect virtually every system on a commercial truck. Some of the most dangerous maintenance failures include:
Hours of Service Violations
Exceeding federal limits on driving time (11 hours maximum after 10 consecutive hours off duty) or total on-duty time.
Brake System Failures
Worn brake pads, air pressure leaks, or improperly adjusted brakes that prevent a truck from stopping in time.
Tire Blowouts
Underinflated, worn, or defective tires that fail catastrophically at highway speeds, causing the driver to lose control.
Steering System Defects
Worn steering components that fail suddenly, making the truck uncontrollable.
Coupling Device Failures
Defective or improperly maintained trailer hitches that allow trailers to detach.
Lighting and Signal Malfunctions
Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or turn signals that prevent other drivers from anticipating the truck’s movements.
Suspension System Problems
Worn suspension components that affect vehicle stability and handling.
Cargo Securement Failures
Inadequate maintenance of tie-downs, straps, or other load securement devices.
Transmission or Engine Failures
Catastrophic mechanical issues that cause sudden loss of power or unintended acceleration.
Proving Liability in a Poor Maintenance Truck Accident Case
Establishing that inadequate maintenance caused a fatal truck accident requires thorough investigation and specific evidence. At Dermer Law, we help families prove liability by:
Obtaining Maintenance Records
Reviewing documentation that often reveals patterns of neglect or falsified inspections.
Securing Inspection Reports
Analyzing pre-trip inspection logs and regulatory inspection results.
Examining Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)
Reviewing reports of defects that may have been identified but not repaired.
Analyzing Black Box Data
Securing the truck’s electronic control module data that may indicate mechanical problems.
Investigating Repair History
Documenting repeated issues with the same systems that went unaddressed.
Examining Physical Evidence
Having experts inspect the truck’s components to identify maintenance failures.
Reviewing Compliance History
Investigating the company’s past violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) maintenance regulations.
Responsible Parties in Poor Maintenance Truck Accident Cases
Unlike typical car accidents, truck maintenance failure cases often involve multiple liable parties:
Trucking Company
The primary entity responsible for maintaining their fleet in safe operating condition.
Maintenance Contractors
Third-party companies hired to perform inspections and repairs.
Truck Owners
When different from the operating company, those with ownership responsibility for the vehicle.
Parts Manufacturers
Companies that produced defective replacement parts
Leasing Companies
Entities that lease trucks but fail to ensure proper maintenance.
At Dermer Law, we identify all potentially responsible parties to maximize the compensation available to your family.
Compensation for Poor Maintenance Truck Accident Wrongful Death Claims
The catastrophic nature of commercial truck accidents often leads to substantial compensation. Families may be entitled to recover:
Medical Expenses
Costs of emergency care and treatment before death.
Funeral and Burial Costs
Expenses related to laying your loved one to rest.
Loss of Income
Compensation for the deceased’s future earnings and benefits that would have supported the family.
Loss of Companionship
Damages for the loss of love, guidance, and support that the deceased would have provided.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress your loved one experienced before death.
Punitive Damages
Additional compensation in cases of egregious maintenance neglect or falsified records.
Steps to Take After a Fatal Truck Accident Involving Mechanical Failure
If you've lost a loved one in a suspected truck maintenance failure accident, taking prompt action is critical:
Preserve Evidence
Request that the truck be preserved immediately through legal channels before repairs are made.
Gather Documentation
Collect the police accident report, witness information, and any available photos or videos.
Document Mechanical Issues
If possible, obtain photographs of visible mechanical defects at the accident scene.
Avoid Early Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often quickly offer settlements that dramatically undervalue your claim.
Act Quickly
Evidence such as maintenance records and physical evidence from the truck can disappear if not legally protected.
Consult an Attorney
Speak with an experienced truck accident attorney who understands the complex technical and regulatory issues in maintenance failure cases.
Contact Dermer Law Today
At Dermer Law, we understand the devastating impact of losing a loved one in a preventable truck accident. Our team approaches each case with meticulous attention to detail, conducting thorough investigations to uncover evidence of maintenance negligence. We work with mechanical engineers, accident reconstruction specialists, and trucking industry experts to build compelling cases.
We maintain forthright communication throughout the legal process, ensuring you always understand your options and the status of your claim. We believe in accountability—both for trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety and in our commitment to transparent representation.
Our attorneys handle the complex technical and legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing from your loss. We are committed to not only securing justice for your family but also to improving industry maintenance standards that protect everyone on the road.
If you’ve lost a family member in an accident involving a poorly maintained commercial truck, don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact Dermer Law today for a free, compassionate consultation. We’re here to fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
Call us now to schedule your free case evaluation!
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