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3 Common Truck Malfunctions (And How to Prevent Them)

Trucks are enormous vehicles that require regular care and maintenance. Even one skipped inspection check can lead to a devastating truck accident. Below, we discuss three common truck malfunctions and what trucking companies should do to prevent them.

#1. Brakes

Brakes often require the most repairs out of any system on a truck. This is because trucks bear heavy loads up and down steep inclines, which can wear out a braking system in a matter of months. Additionally, many trucks’ hydraulic brakes heat up when going down hills. If the brakes get too hot, they will stop working due to a phenomenon known as “brake fade.”

Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved or mitigated with appropriate driver training and routine inspections. And, in order to prevent brake wear out from happening as quickly, truck drivers can take care not to brake too hard or too suddenly, and make sure their truck’s brake fluid is always topped off.

#2. Tires

Tires are sensitive systems that can deteriorate under a variety of conditions. For example, tires can explode if overinflated or overheated. Worn tire treads can lead to a complete loss of control of the vehicle.

Therefore, it’s important for truck drivers to check their tires whenever they stop for a break and make sure they did not encounter any objects on the road that could have weakened them. Additionally, many tire failures can be prevented when tires by inflating them to the correct air pressure, maintaining proper wheel alignment, and driving carefully to avoid potholes and other road hazards.

#3. Engine

A truck’s engine is a workhorse, powering 80,000-pound trucks up and down hills and slopes. This heavy-duty work can result in engine wear out and fatigue. In order to prevent engine wear out and keep the vehicle in tip-top shape, truck drivers should take note of where leaks or overheating come from in the engine. Then, the trucking company should have their mechanic take special care in these areas of the engine to prevent similar issues in the future.

Injured in a Truck Accident? Contact Us Today

Many truck accidents happen as a result of negligence by the trucking company or truck driver. If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, our San Jose personal injury attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of success in cases like these, and we’re here to help you through this.