There are hundreds of thousands of truck accidents on American roads every year. The reasons behind these crashes vary, from poor road conditions to driver actions. However, human error remains the leading cause of all accidents, even those that involve trucks.
A lack of vehicle maintenance is one such instance. Trucks are huge vehicles and carry loads that weigh tonnes. It means that they must always be in tip-top condition when on the road. Loose brakes, worn-out tires or even a broken tail light can spell disaster.
The law is not blind to this, which is why it is a legal requirement for trucks to undergo routine maintenance and ensure they are in a roadworthy condition. If poor maintenance caused your crash, you need to hold the negligent party accountable.
How can you prove a lack of maintenance caused the accident?
There are several places you can look to ascertain the cause of such an accident. Beyond the police report, eyewitness statement or surveillance footage, the truck’s maintenance logs can also provide crucial leads. Trucking companies are required by law to maintain maintenance logs showing the truck’s repair history. Accident reconstruction experts and crash investigators may also provide an informed account of events surrounding the accident.
Filing a trucking accident claim
Before filing your claim, it is necessary to build a strong case that will increase your chances of success. Do you have sufficient proof of the cause of the crash? Did you contribute in any way? How much are you entitled to in damages?
In addition, you may be going after multiple liable parties, including the trucking company. Therefore, it may be in your best interests to reach out for assistance on what you need to do to get the compensation you deserve.