If my loved one was killed in a car accident with a semi truck, how can I prove that poor maintenance caused the accident?

If a loved one was killed in a car accident with a semi truck, evidence will be collected to determine the cause of the accident. This may include maintenance records from the trucking company, especially if poor maintenance is suspected of causing the accident. In Colorado, an Arvada truck accident attorney can help collect this evidence.

There are thousands of large commercial carriers on the roads today, and not all companies or drivers follow the proper maintenance routines for their vehicles. The results of this type of behavior can be dangerous or deadly, and in some cases could cause a fatal semi truck accident.

Trucker Rules and Guidelines

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the government organization that provides guidelines for commercial trucks in the United States. The FMCSA has outlined a variety of rules to help protect truckers and the drivers with whom they share the road.

These guidelines cover a wide range of safety issues, from trucker sleep and rest schedules to load weight. The FMCSA also notes, “Every motor carrier…must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles…subject to its control.”

It’s also good common sense and business practice for trucking companies to keep their fleets up-to-date and in good condition. Trucks that are in good shape make better time and cause fewer troubles in the long run. Sadly, trucking companies sometimes avoid the costs of repairing or replacing trucks, even when the need for action is apparent, which can increase risk for serious accidents, including fatal semi truck accidents.

Repair Problems & Collecting Available Evidence for a Car Accident with a Semi

Trucks may have problems with their breaks, steering lights, tires, transmission, and the list goes on. When a large truck is on the road, carrying heavy loads and traveling at speeds of 70 mph or more, it’s important that every part of the vehicle is in working order. The early signs of mechanical issues can go unnoticed if the trucks aren’t regularly inspected and repaired as necessary.

When an accident involving a semi-truck or any large commercial carrier occurs, the accident victim’s attorney will build a case by collecting available evidence. Often, the trucking company’s maintenance records are helpful when looking for clues. Accident reconstruction specialists may also be called to pinpoint likely causes of the crash. In some cases, the truck itself may be set aside as evidence and examined to determine what if any mechanical errors lead to the crash.

Seeking Legal Help after a Car Accident with a Semi

If you’ve lost a loved one who was in a car accident with semi in Colorado, an Arvada truck accident attorney can review the case and provide legal guidance when pursuing a lawsuit against a driver and/or trucking company following a fatal semi truck accident.

An attorney can help collect evidence like trucking records or maintenance reports to build a wrongful death case. Whether the crash was caused by poor maintenance, an impaired trucker, or something else, attorney D.J. Banovitz will represent your best interests and pursue a wrongful death case after a fatal car accident with a semi truck.