Medium and heavy-duty trucks, semi-trucks and utility trailers, use the roads of Pennsylvania to carry and transport goods throughout the year. Because of the size of trucks and their potential ability to develop problems, large trucks are subjected to inspections.
How often are truck inspections performed?
What things are inspected on a truck?
The inspection requirements for medium and heavy-duty trucks vs. semi-trucks and utility trailers are slightly different. For the former, the things that are required to be inspected include the items listed below.
- Suspension components
- Steering and braking systems
- Tires and wheels
- Electrical and lighting systems
- Fuel systems
- Wipers and windshield washers
- Defrosters
- Glass
- Mirrors
- Odometer and speedometer
- Horns and warning devices
- Exhaust systems
- Body of the truck
- Chassis
On semi-trucks and utility trailers, the following components of a truck must be inspected, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Braking systems
- Suspension components
- Tires and wheels
- Lighting and electrical systems
- Glazing
- Truck body
- Chassis
What happens if a truck fails inspections?
It is not uncommon for a large truck or commercial vehicle to fail inspections. If failure of inspections occurs, then the reason for the failure must be corrected. If the owner of the commercial vehicle fails to have the component that caused the failure corrected, and to then pursue a re-inspection, the trucking company or owner may be subjected to a fine.
Who’s at fault in an accident caused by a problem with a large truck?
When a large truck causes an accident that results in severe injuries for other drivers or passengers involved, the issue of liability for the truck accident is brought into question. Negligence is often considered in order to prove liability.Negligence refers to the inappropriate or irresponsible actions of the person at fault for the accident.
Oftentimes, driver errors are the cause of an accident.
- Distraction (on a cell phone, texting, eating)
- Intoxication (alcohol, illicit drugs, and over-the-counter meds)
- Aggression (speeding, tailgating)
- Fatigue
In cases such as these, the driver (or the trucking company) may be liable. In the case that the accident was caused by a defective vehicle part that was improperly inspected, the company who failed to administer an inspection appropriately may be liable. If the trucking company failed to pursue an inspection, this may be considered negligent behavior that directly contributed to the accident.
Do I need an attorney following an accident involving a large truck?
If you or a loved one has been in an accident that involved a large truck in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering whether or not you need legal help.
If the accident resulted in injuries, an attorney can be essential in helping you recover the damages you deserve for your or your family member.
- Injuries
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
If a family member was killed in a truck accident caused by someone else’s negligence, an attorney can help you recover wrongful death benefits.
At Cordisco & Saile LLC, our truck attorneys in Pennsylvania understand how much a truck accident can affect your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. If you think that someone else’s negligence caused your truck accident, our attorneys can help you prove negligence and liability. Call us today at 215-642-2335 to speak with one of our attorneys now, and get started on proving negligence and determining liability today.
