Warning Signs of Truck Brake Problems

The last thing that any person expects when they are on the roadway is that they will be involved in an accident with a large commercial truck. Larger trucks are prevalent on the roadways throughout Kentucky, but there are times when they experience malfunctions that cause severe accidents. One of the most pervasive malfunctions a truck can experience is brake failure. Here, we want to discuss the warning signs that could indicate that a truck may have brake problems.

1. Bad Compressor

Every large commercial truck will have an air compressor. This air compressor feeds a reservoir with air, and this system delivers the air to the brakes as needed. The compressor system is necessary for building up the appropriate levels of pressure in order to assist with proper breaking. If a truck driver is not getting enough air to the brakes, and there is not any damage to the air lines going through the brakes, it may be necessary to repair or replace the compressor.

2. Damaged Air Line

Air lines are used to get air from the compressor to the brakes in a large commercial truck. If a truck’s air lines become damaged, this could ultimately result in brake failure. Anytime an air line breaks, cracks, or gets punctured, the air pressure going to the brake systems will be compromised, preventing a large truck from stopping effectively.

3. Brake Lock

In the event a truck driver experiences a stuck brake shoe, it will be necessary for them to contact a mechanic immediately. Brake lock does not necessarily mean that the truck cannot stop, but it does mean that the vehicle may seem sluggish when it begins to accelerate again. This could be a sign that the brake shoe is struggling to release itself.

4. Misaligned Brake Shoes

Brake shoes come in pairs, and these pairs are meant to wear out evenly. However, if one of the pairs becomes thinner than the other, this will cause an imbalance that puts more pressure on the weaker brake shoe. The lining of the weaker brake you will begin to rub against the wall of the brake drum, creating unnecessary friction. It is crucial for any truck driver to go to a mechanic if they see any abnormal scraping or hear any squeaking noises when the brake pedal is depressed.

Do You Need an Attorney After a Truck Accident?

If you or somebody you love has been injured in an accident caused by the careless or negligent actions of a truck driver or trucking company, you need to work with a skilled lawyer as soon as possible to help you with your claim. An attorney will be able to use their resources and legal expertise to handle every aspect of the claim, including investigating the cause of the incident. If a crash was caused by a truck’s brake failure, there is a chance that the truck driver or trucking company could be held liable for any injury or damage expenses in the case. An attorney will vigorously negotiate on behalf of their client in order to achieve maximum compensation on their behalf.