Maintenance Issues and Their Impact on Liability in Laredo TX Truck Crashes

As a top U.S. shipping port, commercial vehicles make up a large portion of the traffic in Laredo. Texas has been ranked as one of the most dangerous states for commercial truck accidents. Sadly, when a motorist collides with a semi-truck, the results can be catastrophic. Accident victims often suffer severe, life-altering injuries that leave them unable to work and care for their families. Tragically, many of these crashes occur due to negligence by the trucking company or other parties responsible for keeping these big rigs safe on the road.

The Laredo 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Carabin Shaw see firsthand how these accidents impact accident victims and their families. We help victims maximize damages to cover their bills while they focus on their recovery. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront for our services. Contact our attorneys 24/7 at 1-800-862-1260 for a free case review in Spanish or English.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees commercial vehicle maintenance nationwide. The agency has outlined stringent guidelines for inspecting and maintaining these trucks to ensure their safety on the road. Drivers must submit inspection reports daily, and vehicles must have comprehensive annual inspections to ensure they are in good operating condition.

The Texas Department of Public Safety also issues a guide for motor carriers with specific guidelines similar to the FMCSA. The regulations outline inspection steps and determine how long companies must keep maintenance records. Trucking companies are subject to state and federal regulations when managing their drivers and operating fleets.

State and federal guidelines prohibit vehicles from operating if their condition is likely to cause an accident or breakdown. If you discover a maintenance lapse led directly to your accident, your 18 wheeler accident attorney in Laredo TX may hold the trucking and maintenance companies liable for your damages.

Of the nearly 800 commercial vehicle crashes that occurred in Laredo’s Webb County in 2023, many of those were caused by maintenance violations, such as:

Brake failure on an 18-wheeler can be deadly for accident victims. Sadly, it is one of the leading causes of commercial vehicle crashes. Trucks must adhere to strict schedules for brake inspections and replacement. Skipping this step can lead to dangerous rear-end collisions.

Tire mishaps are another serious hazard on Texas roadways, leading to:

• Reduce traction
• Separating treats
• Vehicle misalignment
• Tire blowouts at high speeds

Truck drivers should check tires regularly to ensure the tread isn’t worn and the tires are properly filled. Frequent tire changes are an everyday necessity in the trucking industry, and depending on the vehicle and the loads, they may occur every few months to a few years. If you believe this was the cause of your crash with a commercial truck in Laredo, contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Lighting defects are a regular cause of law enforcement stops due to the dangers they pose. Missing lighting makes it difficult for a driver to see the road or for other motorists to see the oncoming truck. Burned-out and damaged lights should be replaced immediately to ensure safe travels.

When steering components do not function properly, they can affect a driver’s ability to control the vehicle. Drivers must notify their employer of any signs of wear and tear to the steering system. Failure to do so may lead to collisions with other cars, bikers, or pedestrians.

The electrical systems in today’s trucks monitor everything from safety systems to individual vehicle parts. Defects in this system can be disastrous if they are not repaired immediately. Drivers should always check their vehicles for electrical problems before and after a shift.

A collision with a semi-truck caused by another party's carelessness allows victims and their families to pursue compensation for damages. Carabin Shaw’s team of lawyers has the skills and experience to ensure you get justice after an accident.

If you were injured in a crash, you must prove that commercial truck maintenance negligence led directly to the accident and your injuries to pursue compensation. The lawyers at Carabin Shaw conduct thorough investigations of these incidents to uncover the cause and hold at-fault parties liable for your injuries and other losses. Our client reviews attest to our ability to maximize damages for accident victims like you. Call us toll-free today at 1-800-862-1260 to schedule your free case review.

For more information:

• Data for 2023 reveals Texas as most dangerous state for truck crashes
• Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance for Motor Carriers of Passengers - Part 396
• Guide for Motor Carriers
• Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Involved Crashes and Injuries by County