5 Truck Maintenance Tips That Can Prevent Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be catastrophic. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, the most minor mechanical issues can cause fatal crashes with life-changing consequences. While many factors contribute to truck accidents, poor maintenance is one of the most avoidable causes.

A properly maintained truck not only rides smoother but also decreases the chances of mechanical failure while driving. Unfortunately, if you are involved in a truck accident caused by poor maintenance, consult a truck accident lawyer at William Mattar, as they can help you hold the responsible person accountable for your losses.

Tips

To prevent such events and maintain the truck in good condition, the truck owner, driver, or manager must follow these five important tips.

1. Regular Brake Inspections

Brakes are the most important safety systems in any truck. Due to the heavy loads that trucks haul, worn-out brakes, even slightly, can cause catastrophic results. Proper functionality of the braking system is essential for safe stopping distances and maintaining control when navigating sharp turns or adverse weather conditions. So, brakes should be inspected regularly to avoid accidents.

2. Check Tire Condition and Pressure

Tires contribute to the stability and handling of a truck to a large capacity.  Underinflated or worn-out tires increase the risk of blowouts, poor road grip, and loss of truck control, most likely under bad weather or high-speed driving.  That said, regularly checking the tire tread depth and pressure keeps the tires roadworthy. 

3. Keep Lights and Signals Working

Visibility is important, especially with large trucks operating alongside smaller vehicles. Working headlights, taillights, and turn signals notify others of your actions and can help to prevent accidents. Faulty lights not only constitute a safety hazard but can, if not corrected, lead to violations upon inspection and possible financial penalties too. Thus, test your exterior lights periodically and change any burned-out bulbs or fuses.

4. Inspect and Maintain the Suspension System

The suspension system assists in absorbing shocks and the truck’s stability, particularly under heavy loads.  A damaged or worn-out suspension can lead to swerving, unbalanced tire wear, or loss of stability. It further causes additional pressure on the rest of the components, thus increasing the chances of mechanical failure. Therefore, look for indications of wear, such as shocks that leak, shattered leaf springs, or abnormal bouncing, which will be felt while driving.

5. Monitor Fluid Levels and Leaks

Engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid are all critical to the operation and safety of a truck. This is because dirty or low fluid levels can cause overheating, system failure, or sluggish responsiveness at the wheel.

Therefore, regularly check fluid levels and inspect beneath the truck for leaks. It is much easier to repair an early minor leak than to repair the damage caused by complete system failure after breaking down or having an accident.

Wrapping Up

Maintaining your truck is not only about keeping your rig operational—it’s about keeping you, your truck, and everyone around you safe. A careless mistake can cause a major accident; however, regular inspection and proper maintenance can make all the difference.

Thus, truck operators and drivers can minimize the chances of hazardous accidents by doing the above five maintenance tips and ensuring that the vehicles are in top condition.