Commercial trucks are complex machines with numerous moving parts, all of which must work together seamlessly. From the brakes and tires to the engine and transmission, each component plays a critical role in keeping the vehicle under control.
When any of these parts fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you have been injured in a truck accident caused by equipment failure, it can be difficult to know what to do next. A truck accident attorney in Kansas City can help you with these complexities. Here is what you need to know to navigate the aftermath.
What Types of Equipment Failures Can Cause Truck Accidents?
Several types of equipment failures can contribute to truck accidents. Some of the most common include:
- Brake Failures: Malfunctioning brakes can prevent a truck driver from slowing down or stopping in time to avoid a collision.
- Tire Blowouts: When a truck’s tires are worn, underinflated, or overloaded, they are more likely to experience a blowout, which can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
- Steering System Failures: If a truck’s steering system malfunctions, the driver may be unable to maintain proper control of the vehicle.
- Trailer Hitch Failures: When a trailer becomes detached from the truck due to a faulty hitch, it can create a hazardous situation for other vehicles on the road.
- Transmission Failures: A malfunctioning transmission can cause a truck to unexpectedly shift gears or lose power.
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by Equipment Failures?
In the event of a truck accident caused by equipment failure, several parties may be financially responsible for the victims’ damages. The trucking company is often responsible for ensuring that their vehicles are properly maintained and that any necessary repairs are made in a timely manner. If the company fails to adhere to these obligations, it may be held accountable for any accidents that occur.
In some cases, a third-party maintenance provider may be liable if they performed faulty repairs or failed to identify and address potential issues during routine inspections. Additionally, if a defective truck part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of that component may be held responsible.
What Should You Do After a Truck Accident in Kansas City?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident caused by equipment failure, it’s crucial to take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible to treat any injuries and receive important medical documentation.
- Call 911 to report the accident and ensure that an official record of the incident is created.
- Document the scene of the accident by taking photos of the damaged vehicles, your injuries, and any other relevant evidence.
- Obtain contact information from the truck driver and any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur.
- Contact a Kansas City personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe Today
Equipment failure in trucks can lead to devastating accidents, leaving victims with serious injuries and a long road to recovery. At Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe, we strive to hold trucking companies and other parties accountable for these devastating incidents. We will fight to secure the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Contact us today at (816) 876-2600 or toll-free at (877) 816-2600 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.