Semi-truck accidents can be some of the most deadly and devastating accidents on the road. This is because of the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When a semi-truck collision occurs, it often results in serious injury or death.
In many cases, it is found that maintenance issues were to blame for the accident. In this blog post, we will discuss how maintenance issues can lead to semi-truck accidents. Read on to learn more.
Tire Failure
There are a number of maintenance issues that can lead to semi-truck accidents. One of the most common is tire failure. Semi-trucks require a lot of torque to get moving, and this often leads to tire blowouts. When a tire blows out, it can cause the truck to lose control and jackknife, which can easily cause a crash.
Similarly, if the tires are not properly inflated or if they are bald, this can also cause an accident. It is important that semi-truck tires are rotated frequently to maintain even tread wear on all four tires. Doing so can help avoid uneven tire wear, which can potentially lead to a blowout. Tire blowouts often send debris flying through the air, which can easily cause a crash.
Brake Failure
Another common maintenance issue that can lead to semi-truck accidents is brake failure. Semi-trucks are required to have a special braking system due to their size and weight. If this system is not properly maintained, it can fail. When this happens, the truck may not be able to stop in time or can lose control, which could lead to a serious accident.
Engine Failure
If the engine oil and filter in a semi-truck are not changed regularly, this can result in serious mechanical problems. Engine oil is often contaminated with dust, dirt, and debris from the engine and environment. When a semi-truck experiences mechanical failure, it may cause the vehicle to veer off course, which can lead to a crash.
Additionally, while it is not particularly common anymore, it is also possible for a truck to catch fire as a result of a failure to change the engine oil.
Worn Spark Plug Fire
It is critical that spark plugs are in proper working order at all times. When spark plugs are not adequately inspected and maintained on a regular basis, it is possible for a fire to ignite when leaked fuel is set ablaze due to a spark resulting from poor insulation on a spark plug.
Similarly, a cylinder misfire can occur when a spark plug is unable to ignite the air-fuel mixture, which is often the result of worn spark plugs.
Semi-trucks that use conventional spark plugs must have them replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to avoid issues. However, long-life (iridium- or platinum-tipped) spark plugs should be changed at 60,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on the truck.
We're Here for Accident Victims
As you can see, there are a number of maintenance issues that can lead to semi-truck accidents. If you are an injured victim of a semi-truck collision through no fault of your own, don't hesitate to reach out to our skilled personal injury team right away for legal representation. We will fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
We hope the information we’ve provided here helps, but if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help during this difficult time. Contact us today to learn more about your options.
Call our firm today for a free case evaluation at (605) 777-7466. Choose a skilled team that truly cares about you and your best interests.