18-Wheeler Brake Maintenance is a Top Safety Violation in Texas
Safety is often a top priority when driving on Texas roadways. However, when maintenance violations occur, other drivers can be put at risk, especially when 18-wheelers are involved. One of the top safety concerns that can occur among drivers in Texas is brake maintenance.
18-wheeler maintenance violations are a huge threat to public safety on Texas roadways. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) list of safety violations contains over 200 potential infractions, with point values of five points or higher. All brake-related safety violations carry a point value of 10 or higher because of their greater probability to cause critical injuries and deadly accidents.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s Large Truck Crash Causation Study, 10 percent of all truck accidents are caused by the vehicle itself, not by the driver’s actions or the environment, (such as weather or traffic conditions). The study also lists brake failure—a type of mechanical failure—as the #1 factor associated with crashes.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), more than half a million commercial motor vehicle violations in 2017 were related to brakes. The U.S. conducted 8,738 commercial motor vehicle inspections that year in conjunction with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), 16.6% of which were placed out of service for brake violations.
Additionally, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 29% of all commercial truck accidents involve some type of brake failure. Because of this, commercial truck brakes must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in working condition. If a truck’s brakes malfunction, a serious truck accident can occur resulting in severe injury or even death.
Houston Trucking Accident Attorney
18-wheeler or trucking accidents can be devastating for those involved. These large trucks often weigh in around 80,000 pounds fully loaded and travel at typical interstate speeds. In the event an accident occurs, serious damage often results. If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident where you suspect braking was a crucial element, contact the experienced trucking accident lawyers at the Craft Law Firm today to discuss your case.