Mechanical Failures in Truck Accidents: San Bernardino County Guide

When mechanical failures lead to truck accidents in San Bernardino County, victims need experienced legal representation. The Law Offices of Edgar Lombera specializes in traffic collision cases involving commercial vehicles. Call 909-915-0181 for a free consultation with our knowledgeable truck accident lawyers.

Understanding Mechanical Failures in Truck Accidents

Mechanical failures represent a significant cause of truck accidents in San Bernardino County. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports that these failures contribute to approximately 10% of all serious truck accidents nationwide. When a large commercial vehicle experiences mechanical failure, the consequences can be catastrophic for everyone on the road.

Trucks traveling through San Bernardino County face unique challenges including mountain passes, extreme temperature variations, and heavy traffic that can accelerate wear on critical components. These conditions increase the risk of mechanical failures, potentially leading to devastating traffic collisions.

Have you been injured in a truck accident involving mechanical failure? Contact the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 for a free case evaluation with our experienced truck accident lawyers.

Common Types of Mechanical Failures That Lead to Truck Accidents

Brake System Failures

Brake failures rank among the most dangerous mechanical issues in commercial trucks. When brake systems malfunction, truck drivers lose the ability to slow or stop their vehicles, creating immense hazards on San Bernardino County roads.

Commercial trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger cars even with properly functioning brakes. When brake fluid leaks occur or components fail, drivers may be completely unable to avoid collisions, leading to severe injuries and substantial property damage.

Several factors contribute to brake failures in commercial trucks:

Inadequate maintenance and worn brake components
Overheated brakes, particularly common on San Bernardino County’s mountain descents
Improper adjustments and calibration issues
Air pressure problems and leaks in brake systems
Contaminated brake fluid reducing hydraulic effectiveness

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration mandates regular inspection and maintenance of truck brake systems, yet these critical components continue to cause serious traffic collisions due to negligence.

Tire Failures and Blowouts

Tire blowouts represent another frequent cause of truck accidents on San Bernardino County highways. Commercial truck tires endure tremendous weight and pressure during long hauls, especially in the region’s varied climate conditions. When a tire fails at highway speeds, the truck driver may lose control completely, causing the vehicle to jackknife or rollover.

Factors contributing to tire failures include:

Improper inflation and maintenance
Excessive wear on tire tread
Manufacturing defects in the tire construction
Road hazards including construction debris and potholes
Overloaded cargo exceeding tire weight ratings

The risk of tire failure increases significantly when trucks operate in extreme temperatures, from desert heat to mountain cold. These conditions accelerate wear and can expose manufacturing weaknesses in tires, leading to catastrophic blowouts and subsequent traffic collisions.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident caused by tire failure in San Bernardino County, you need legal representation that understands these complex cases. Call the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 to discuss your legal options.

Steering System and Power Steering Failures

Steering mechanism failures can make a commercial truck virtually impossible to control, particularly at highway speeds. When power steering systems fail, the physical force required to turn the steering wheel increases dramatically, often exceeding the truck driver’s capabilities during emergency situations.

These steering failures in San Bernardino County truck accidents commonly result from:

Hydraulic fluid leaks reducing power steering effectiveness
Pump malfunctions leading to complete power steering loss
Worn steering components including tie rods and steering gear
Improper maintenance practices
Manufacturing defects in steering systems

Steering failures often manifest suddenly, giving truck drivers little warning before they lose control of their vehicles. When these failures occur on busy highways or in mountainous areas, the risk of catastrophic accidents increases substantially.

Transmission and Engine Failures

Transmission and engine failures in commercial trucks can lead to sudden loss of power or unexpected vehicle behavior. When these mechanical failures occur on highways or in heavy traffic, they create dangerous situations that often result in serious accidents.

Common transmission and engine issues include:

Transmission fluid leaks leading to overheating
Engine stalling causing sudden deceleration
Transmission slippage creating unpredictable acceleration
Coupling device failures between truck and trailer
Electronic control module malfunctions

These mechanical failures may result from poor maintenance practices, manufacturing defects, or failure to address warning signs. Regardless of the specific cause, they create hazardous conditions that put all road users at risk.

Lighting and Signal Failures

Though sometimes overlooked, lighting and signal failures contribute significantly to truck accidents, particularly during nighttime operations or adverse weather conditions. When headlights, brake lights, turn signals, or marker lights malfunction, other drivers receive incorrect information or may fail to see the truck altogether.

These failures compromise visibility and communication between vehicles, increasing the risk of traffic collisions, especially during lane changes, turns, and braking maneuvers.

Determining Liability in Truck Accidents Involving Mechanical Failures

Establishing liability in truck accidents caused by mechanical failures requires thorough investigation and legal expertise. Multiple parties may share responsibility for these traffic collisions.

Trucking Company Liability

Trucking companies operating in San Bernardino County have a legal obligation to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. When they fail to perform required inspections or address known mechanical issues, they may be held liable for negligence when accidents occur.

Several factors can establish trucking company liability:

Inadequate maintenance programs and inspection schedules
Ignored warning signs about mechanical problems
Cost-cutting measures delaying necessary repairs
Documentation failures in maintenance records
Violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requirements

Our law firm has extensive experience investigating trucking company maintenance records to establish patterns of negligence that contribute to serious accidents. We work diligently to hold these companies accountable for the injuries they cause through mechanical failures.

Manufacturer Product Liability

In some cases, defective truck parts or design flaws may cause mechanical failures despite proper maintenance. Manufacturers can be held liable under product liability laws when their components fail and cause traffic collisions in San Bernardino County.

Product liability claims may involve:

Design defects in critical vehicle components
Manufacturing defects occurring during production
Inadequate warnings about potential failure risks
Components failing before their expected lifespan

These complex cases require expert witnesses and technical knowledge to establish that the defective part caused the accident. Our legal team collaborates with mechanical engineering experts and accident reconstructionists to build compelling cases against negligent manufacturers.

Truck Driver Responsibility

Truck drivers have a legal duty to inspect their vehicles before each trip and report mechanical concerns. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires drivers to conduct thorough pre-trip inspections covering critical safety components, including:

Brake systems and brake fluid levels
Tire condition and inflation pressure
Steering mechanisms and hydraulic systems
Lights and signals
Coupling devices and trailer connections

When drivers fail to perform these required safety checks or operate vehicles despite obvious mechanical problems, they may share liability for resulting accidents. However, drivers are often pressured by employers to continue operating vehicles with known issues to meet delivery deadlines.

Suspect a trucking company’s negligence caused your accident in San Bernardino County? Call the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 for a free case evaluation with our experienced truck accident lawyers.

Investigating Mechanical Failures in Truck Accidents

Proper investigation is essential to establish the role of mechanical failures in truck accidents. Our law firm employs a comprehensive approach to gather and preserve crucial evidence.

Securing the Vehicle and Physical Evidence

After a truck accident potentially involving mechanical failure, it’s vital to secure the vehicle before repairs are made or evidence is lost. Our legal team works quickly to:

Send preservation letters requiring the trucking company to maintain evidence
Document vehicle condition with thorough photography
Secure electronic control module data from the truck
Collect fluid samples when leaks may have contributed to the accident
Preserve failed parts for expert examination

This physical evidence often proves crucial in establishing exactly how mechanical failures contributed to the accident.

Analyzing Maintenance Records

Thorough review of truck maintenance records can reveal patterns of neglect or specific failures to address known issues. Our investigation includes examination of:

Routine maintenance logs and service records
Repair histories and previous work performed
Driver vehicle inspection reports
Compliance documentation for required safety inspections
Internal communications regarding vehicle condition

Gaps in these records or evidence of ignored warning signs can strongly support claims of negligence against trucking companies in personal injury lawsuits.

Expert Testimony on Mechanical Failures

Complex mechanical failure cases often require specialized knowledge to explain to a jury how specific failures occurred and contributed to accidents. We work with qualified expert witnesses including:

Mechanical engineers analyzing failed components
Accident reconstructionists determining how the failure affected vehicle dynamics
Commercial vehicle inspectors identifying safety violations
Maintenance specialists assessing proper vs. improper procedures

These expert witnesses provide crucial testimony that helps establish liability and secure appropriate damages for our clients injured in truck accidents.

Legal Options for Victims of Truck Accidents Caused by Mechanical Failures

If you’ve been injured in a San Bernardino County truck accident involving mechanical failure, you have several legal options for seeking compensation.

Personal Injury Claims

Filing a personal injury lawsuit allows victims to seek comprehensive damages for their injuries and losses. These lawsuits can target multiple responsible parties, including trucking companies, maintenance providers, and manufacturers of defective components.

Successful personal injury claims involving mechanical failures typically require:

Establishing negligence through maintenance records and expert testimony
Demonstrating how the mechanical failure caused the accident
Documenting all damages with medical records and financial evidence
Building a compelling case with expert witnesses and accident reconstruction

The Law Offices of Edgar Lombera has extensive experience navigating these complex cases and securing favorable outcomes for clients injured in truck accidents throughout San Bernardino County.

Wrongful Death Claims

When mechanical failures lead to fatal truck accidents, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These claims provide compensation for losses including:

Funeral and burial expenses
Lost financial support and future income
Loss of companionship and guidance
Medical expenses prior to death
Pain and suffering of the deceased before death

These emotionally challenging cases require compassionate yet tenacious legal representation to secure appropriate compensation for grieving families.

Don’t navigate the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Contact our experienced lawyers at 909-915-0181 for guidance on your personal injury claim.

Insurance Claims and Settlements

Many truck accident cases are resolved through insurance settlements before proceeding to trial. However, insurance companies representing trucking companies typically work to minimize payouts, particularly in complex mechanical failure cases.

Our experienced lawyers understand insurance company tactics and will:

Prepare comprehensive claims with all available evidence
Calculate full damages accounting for both current and future losses
Negotiate effectively using evidence of negligence as leverage
Reject inadequate offers when settlements are insufficient
Proceed to litigation when fair settlements cannot be reached

Having skilled legal representation significantly increases the likelihood of securing fair insurance settlements in mechanical failure cases.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident Involving Mechanical Failure

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident that may have resulted from mechanical failure, taking the right steps immediately can protect both your health and your legal rights.

Immediate Actions

Prioritize safety and check for injuries
Call emergency services and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor
Document evidence including photos of the vehicles and mechanical issues
Collect witness contact information
Record the truck’s DOT number, license plate, and company information

Preserving Your Legal Rights

Avoid discussing fault with other parties
Limit communication with insurance companies
Decline early settlement offers
Preserve all documents related to the accident and your injuries
Consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer promptly

Don’t delay seeking legal help after a truck accident. Evidence of mechanical failures can disappear quickly. Contact the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 for immediate assistance with your San Bernardino County case.

Compensation Available for Victims of Mechanical Failure Truck Accidents

Victims of truck accidents caused by mechanical failures may be entitled to various forms of compensation depending on the specifics of their case.

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for specific financial losses including:

Medical expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, and rehabilitation
Future medical costs for ongoing treatment needs
Lost income during recovery periods
Diminished earning capacity due to permanent injuries
Property damage to vehicles and personal belongings
Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident and recovery

These damages can be calculated with relative precision based on bills, receipts, and expert projections of future costs.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address subjective losses that don’t have specific dollar values:

Pain and suffering from physical injuries
Emotional trauma and psychological impact
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement and permanent scarring
Loss of consortium and relationship impacts

These damages often form a significant portion of compensation in serious injury cases but require skilled legal representation to secure.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional disregard for safety, punitive damages may be available. These additional damages punish particularly egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future.

Examples might include trucking companies that knowingly operate vehicles with dangerous mechanical defects or falsify maintenance records to hide safety issues.

Our experienced truck accident lawyers work diligently to secure all forms of compensation you’re entitled to after a mechanical failure accident. Call the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 to discuss the potential value of your case.

Preventing Mechanical Failure Accidents

While our firm is dedicated to representing victims after accidents occur, preventing these dangerous situations remains the ultimate goal. Trucking companies and drivers can reduce the risk of mechanical failure accidents by:

Regular Maintenance Programs

Implementing comprehensive maintenance schedules that exceed Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requirements can significantly reduce the risk of mechanical failures. These programs should include regular inspection and replacement of critical components before they wear to dangerous levels.

Thorough Pre-Trip Inspections

Truck drivers serve as the first line of defense against mechanical failures. Proper pre-trip inspections should include detailed checks of all safety systems, with particular attention to brakes, tires, steering, and coupling devices.

Driver Training on Mechanical Issues

Proper training helps drivers identify warning signs of potential mechanical failures before they become catastrophic. This includes recognizing unusual sounds, vibrations, or handling characteristics that might indicate developing problems.

Technology Integration

Modern technology offers numerous tools for monitoring vehicle condition, including electronic logging devices, tire pressure monitoring systems, brake performance monitoring, and real-time diagnostic systems. These technologies can identify potential issues before they lead to failures.

How The Law Offices of Edgar Lombera Can Help

At the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera, our experienced truck accident attorneys provide comprehensive legal representation for victims of accidents caused by mechanical failures throughout San Bernardino County.

Our Approach to Mechanical Failure Cases

We employ a thorough, detail-oriented approach to build the strongest possible cases:

Comprehensive Investigation: We examine all aspects of the accident and potential mechanical failures.
Expert Collaboration: Our firm works with qualified experts in relevant fields to establish causation and liability.
Strategic Case Building: We develop compelling legal strategies tailored to the specific mechanical failures involved in your accident.
Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court, we advocate fiercely for your rights.
Client-Centered Service: Throughout the process, we maintain clear communication and ensure you understand your options.

Our firm has successfully represented numerous victims of truck accidents caused by mechanical failures in San Bernardino County. We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for our clients, providing the financial resources they need to recover and rebuild their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Failures in Truck Accidents

Are truck accident cases different from regular motor vehicle accident cases?

Yes, truck accident cases involving mechanical failures are significantly more complex than typical motor vehicle accident cases. Commercial trucks are subject to federal regulations, carry higher insurance requirements, and may involve multiple liable parties. Additionally, the technical aspects of mechanical failures require specialized knowledge and expert witnesses to properly evaluate and present in court.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault in an accident with a truck that had mechanical failures?

California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for an accident. Your compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages totaled $100,000, you could still recover $80,000. A skilled lawyer can help minimize your assigned fault when mechanical failures played a significant role.

What if a truck's windshield or lighting failure contributed to my accident?

Visibility issues caused by windshield damage or lighting failures are serious mechanical problems that trucking companies must address promptly. If poor visibility due to these failures contributed to your accident, this may establish negligence. The Law Offices of Edgar Lombera can investigate these specific factors and build a case showing how these failures led to your injuries.

How do mechanical failures compare to distracted driving in causing truck accidents?

While distracted driving receives significant attention as a cause of accidents, mechanical failures often create equally dangerous situations. In some cases, both factors may contribute to a single accident. For instance, a truck driver may be unable to respond appropriately to a mechanical failure because they were distracted. Our firm investigates all potential causes to establish full liability.

Can motorcycle or bicycle riders pursue claims for injuries caused by truck mechanical failures?

Yes, motorcycle and bicycle riders often suffer catastrophic injuries when involved in accidents with trucks experiencing mechanical failures. These vulnerable road users have the same rights to pursue compensation as any other accident victim. Due to the severity of injuries typically sustained, these cases often involve significant damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

How are brain and spinal cord injuries handled in truck accident cases involving mechanical failures?

Brain and spinal cord injuries are among the most serious consequences of truck accidents. These catastrophic injuries typically require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and potentially lifelong care. Our attorneys work with medical experts to document the full extent of these injuries and their long-term impact on your life, ensuring your compensation reflects these significant costs and challenges.

How does drunk driving interact with mechanical failures in truck accident liability?

When truck accidents involve both drunk driving and mechanical failures, it creates a particularly strong liability case. A truck driver operating under the influence of alcohol while also knowingly driving a vehicle with mechanical problems demonstrates extreme negligence. In such cases, trucking companies may face enhanced liability for both their driver’s behavior and their failure to properly maintain their vehicles.

What types of legal advice should I seek after a truck accident involving mechanical failure?

After a truck accident involving mechanical failures, you should seek legal advice from attorneys experienced specifically in commercial truck litigation. These specialized lawyers understand the technical aspects of mechanical failures, federal trucking regulations, and how to effectively investigate and establish liability in these complex cases. General personal injury attorneys may lack the specific expertise needed for these cases.

How does a steering wheel failure affect liability in truck accident cases?

Steering wheel failures create extremely dangerous situations as they can completely eliminate a driver’s ability to control the vehicle. When such failures occur, liability typically falls on either the trucking company for inadequate maintenance, the manufacturer for design or production defects, or the maintenance provider for improper repairs. Determining exactly why the steering wheel failed requires thorough investigation by qualified experts.

Conclusion

Mechanical failures continue to cause serious truck accidents throughout San Bernardino County, resulting in severe injuries and even fatalities. Victims of these traffic collisions have legal rights to seek compensation from negligent trucking companies, manufacturers, and other responsible parties.

Understanding the specific mechanical failures that commonly lead to accidents can help establish liability and build stronger personal injury claims. With proper legal representation, victims can secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward after these traumatic events.

The Law Offices of Edgar Lombera brings together experienced attorneys, industry experts, and a commitment to client advocacy that produces results for truck accident victims across San Bernardino County. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families, and we’re dedicated to securing the justice and compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident involving mechanical failure in San Bernardino County, don’t face the legal system alone. Contact the Law Offices of Edgar Lombera at 909-915-0181 for a free consultation with our experienced truck accident lawyers. We’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique and requires personalized evaluation by a qualified attorney.

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