What To Do If The At-Fault Truck Driver Claims Brake Failure?

When a truck driver causes an accident, they will try to avoid liability by making claims which can defer fault to another party. For example, a driver who hits another car from behind may claim that the other driver slammed on the brakes without warning, causing the following driver to crash into the back of the other vehicle. Also, the driver may claim that they were not speeding, that the other driver was speeding, or that the road was not well-maintained. 

If the driver who was hit does not have dashcam footage that captures the moments leading up to the crash, the at-fault driver's claims may be difficult to refute. Therefore, contacting a car accident attorney in Los Angeles is essential. 

What to do if the at-fault truck driver claims brake failure?

Brake failure is one of the most common and potentially deadliest maintenance issues a truck or trailer can have. Though there are many causes of brake failure, here are the most common.

• Lack of maintenance

Brake shoes, slack adjusters, drums, rotors, calipers, and hoses must be inspected regularly, and they all need to be replaced as they wear out. The air in the brake system also needs to be replaced periodically, as moisture can cause corrosion, which leads to other issues.

• Improper installation

This is one of the most common causes of brake failure. The result can be catastrophic if a mechanic does not properly install a brake drum, rotor, or caliper.

• Loose parts

Brake shoes, drums, rotors, and calipers can come loose for various reasons. If that happens, you need to fix the issue immediately.

• Faulty parts

Not all parts are created equal, and some brake parts are simply more prone to failure than others. If you suspect a part is faulty, it is best to replace it as soon as possible.

The case may become more complicated if the at-fault driver claims brake failure. The driver may claim that they could not have avoided the accident, even if they had been driving more carefully. In this situation, it may be more challenging to prove that the driver was at fault may be more difficult.

If you are involved in a truck accident, the first step is to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer. An experienced truck accident lawyer can investigate the accident and determine whether the truck driver's brake failure claim is valid. The lawyer can help you recover damages from the truck driver and the trucking company if the claim is valid.