The brakes go out, the steering wheel comes off, and the runaway truck races down a hill into a conveniently placed hay pile. The driver stumbles out of the vehicle brushing hay from his hair.
Watch this scenario on TV, and it’s worth a good chuckle. In real life, however, a semi-truck’s air brake system can cause a serious Maryland truck accident that results in big injuries to you or a loved one.
Air brakes can cause a Maryland truck crash when:
- They are not properly connected
- The air hose connecting the trailer and cab breaks or otherwise becomes disconnected
- There is a leak in the system
- The air pressure is too low
Any one of these issues and more can cause the air brake system to lose air and lock up. When this happens, the truck driver must make an emergency stop, if possible. A locked-up air brake system can cause the truck’s trailer to veer off the road, or even make the tires catch on fire from the friction.
Truck drivers are required to inspect the air brake system before every trip, and routine maintenance must be performed by the truck company or truck owner to ensure that this crucial system is working properly at all times. When any one of these components is left unattended, it can lead to a disastrous truck accident in which you are the victim.
If you or a family member has been injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler or other large truck equipped with air brakes, talk to a skilled Maryland truck accident attorney who can help you determine the cause of the crash and go after the responsible party or parties.
To see if Nickelsporn and Lundin are the right attorneys for you, give us a call at 1-800-875-9700 and get a firsthand look at how our experience has helped other victims like you.