Errors Involving Trailers Can Cause Semi-Truck Accidents
Truckers and trucking companies must always ensure that safety is a top priority. Among other things, they need to keep the truck’s trailer in proper working order. Errors involving the trailer have the potential to cause a catastrophic crash. Here, our West Palm Beach semi-truck accident attorney discusses the most common things that go wrong with trailers.
Big Four Trailer-Related Defects that Can Cause Semi-Truck Accidents in Florida
Improperly Loaded/Overloaded Trailers
A trailer must be properly loaded in order to be roadworthy. Cargo loading mistakes are a major cause of serious truck accidents in Florida. Notably, federal regulations set strict requirements regarding cargo securement, weight distribution, and maximum allowable loads for commercial vehicles. A trailer that is overloaded or unevenly loaded is far more difficult to control, especially at highway speeds or during emergency maneuvers. Excessive weight can increase stopping distance, place added stress on brakes and tires, and raise the risk of a rollover accident.
Trailer Brake System Problems
One thing that many people outside of the industry might not know is that semi-truck trailers have independent braking systems that must function properly at all times. Trailer brake defects are extremely dangerous because tractor-trailers require substantial stopping distance even under ideal conditions. Worn brake pads, air brake leaks, damaged brake drums, or improperly adjusted brakes can significantly reduce stopping power. That makes a crash far more likely to happen.
Tire Blowouts and Wheel Assembly Problems
Trailer tire failures frequently lead to catastrophic truck accidents. Commercial trailer tires endure enormous stress, particularly in Florida’s heat and humidity. Underinflated tires, excessive tread wear, defective retreads, poor maintenance practices, and a wide range of other errors can all increase the risk of a blowout. A sudden tire failure can cause the trailer to sway violently or pull the truck into adjacent lanes. That could result in a devastating crash.
Defective Trailer Coupling or Hitch Connections
Finally, the connection between the tractor and trailer is one of the most critical safety components on a commercial truck. If the fifth-wheel coupling system is defective, improperly secured, or poorly maintained, the trailer can partially or fully detach from the tractor during operation. A detached trailer creates an immediate emergency for surrounding motorists.
Recovering Compensation for a Serious Injury in a Trailer-Related Crash
If you suffered a serious injury in a trailer-related crash, you have the right to bring a fault-based claim against the negligent trucking company or any other negligent party. Through an at-fault truck accident claim in Florida, you can seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including intangible losses. A settlement may include financial compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other medical costs;
- Physical therapy;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Set Up a Free Case Review With a West Palm Beach Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach eighteen wheeler accident attorney is an aggressive, experienced advocate for justice. If you or your loved one was involved in a crash caused by a trailer-related error, we can help. Call us now for a free case review. Our firm provides legal representation for truck accident victims throughout South Florida.
