CHICAGO, IL – Truck drivers know the importance of preparing their trucks before heading on the road in the event of a breakdown. It’s important to know the most prevalent causes of semi-truck breakdowns so you can prepare accordingly. Under federal law, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires truck drivers to do inspections before each haul to ensure all parts are working properly.
Brakes
Brakes are one of the most critical components of any motor vehicle, specifically for tractor trailer’s size and weight. When brakes to semis fail, it can cause catastrophic injury or death. Brakes of semi-trucks are suspectable to damage due to the amount of friction they’re exposed to daily. Heat and air leaks can also cause a semi’s brakes to not proper functionally.
Tires
Constantly driving semi-trucks across the country will eventually wear and tear. If a tire blows out on a semi-truck, it can cause problems for other vehicles on the roadway. It’s critical to check tire pressure to ensure their properly inflated and ready to hit the road.
Battery or Alternator
Luckily for truck drivers, a truck’s battery or alternator light will flicker when a truck is idle, indicating the truck driver needs to check the semi-truck’s battery immediately. Operating semi’s in colder areas can cause more battery issues, as well. Most semi-truck batteries have a lifespan of at least three to five years, but can be shorted if forced to function in frigid weather.
Engine
Just as if your battery is old, if your engine is old, they are more prone to problems. The most common sign is receiving less mileage than normally, in addition to your semi-truck being unable to reach the same speeds it once could.
Age
Even if your semi-truck is reliable and well-oiled, the wear and tear can have an impact on it’s ability to perform. Especially if you’re driving an outdated semi, it’s important that you maintain your truck properly and regularly to avoid it breaking down. The more upkeep you do, the less work it will be for you in the long run.
Injured in a semi-truck accident?
Nearly 500,000 trucking accidents happen each year in the U.S. resulting in almost 5,000 deaths per year. If you or your loved one has been injured in a semi-truck accident, call one of our experienced personal injury and trucking attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group. Call us now for a free case evaluation at (312) 384-1920.
