Have you ever wondered if, in a truck accident, it could be the fault of a third party, like the mechanic who did not fix the truck properly?
Well, scenarios like this can be daunting to navigate. This is especially true when in 2022 alone, there were about 5,837 large trucks involved in fatal crashes, a staggering 1.8% increase from the last year. (Source: Injury Facts)
And, this is why it is often suggested to look for a truck accident attorney, who can guide you legally and support you until you get full justice. So, in this read, we’ll be exploring what mechanics are responsible for and when they might share the blame for a crash.
Let’s start!
Faulty Repairs or Maintenance
A mechanic’s job involves more than just fixing the problem, but also ensuring that their work meets the safety standards for both the driver and others. And, in case they perform any faulty repairs, such as incorrectly installing parts, failing to address visible issues, or using defective components, they might be responsible for the accident.
Here are a few of examples of faulty repairs, where a mechanic might be of the fault:
Improper Brake Repairs: If a mechanic installs brake pads incorrectly, it can lead to brake failure during a critical moment.
Steering or Suspension Errors: Carelessness during the repair of the steering or suspension system can also lead to vehicle control loss.
Loose or Missing Bolts: Improperly or inadequately lightning the bolts can cause a wheel to come off in the mid-drive, which can cause a fatal accident.
Do You Know?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the number of large truck fatality crashes increased 52% between 2010 and 2021.
Failure to Detect or Fix Obvious Problems
Mechanics are professionals who can identify and fix issues, even those not explicitly mentioned by the truck owner. So, if they fail to notice a glaring safety problem during routine service, they might share responsibility for the accident. This can include scenarios like severely worn tires or a cracked brake line.
Using Defective or Improper Parts
A mechanic who installs a defective or unsuitable part for your truck may also be held liable.
For instance, if a mechanic is using the wrong size of brake components or low-quality aftermarket parts, this can also result in an accident. And, this is why they must use appropriate, high-quality parts for repairs, as cutting corners to save time or money can have serious consequences.
Skipping Manufacturer Guidelines or Best Practices
Most vehicles come with manufacturer-recommended checklists for repairs and maintenance. And, ignoring these guidelines or even failing to follow the already established safety practices might lead to liability.
For instance, a mechanic skipping torque specifications when tightening bolts or failing to recalibrate sensors after a repair could create unsafe conditions.
Do You know?
According to the Truck Info, there were about 76,180 individuals injured in a truck accident in 2022.
Proving a Mechanic’s Liability
So, if you want to hold a mechanic accountable for an accident, this will require you to gather some proof that their work contributed to the crash. These evidences can include the:
Negligence: The mechanic failed to meet specialized benchmarks or acted irrationally during the maintenance.
Causation: Their mistake directly led to the mechanical failure that caused the accident.
Evidence might include repair records, expert analysis of the work performed, or inspection of faulty components. However, if you have already opted for a truck accident attorney experienced in handling these cases, they can help uncover the facts and build a strong case.
Situations Where Liability May Not Apply
Mechanics aren’t automatically responsible for every issue that arises after a repair.
For instance, in the case where the truck owner ignored recommended repairs, misused the vehicle, or continued driving despite clear warnings, then the mechanic would not be responsible for the accident.
In addition, accidents caused by defects in the truck’s original design or manufacturing are typically the responsibility of the manufacturer, not the repair shop.
Conclusion
Mechanics play a very important role in ensuring the safety of trucks on the road. However, they can also fail sometimes for their job and the consequences can be disturbing.
Liability arises when a mechanic’s negligence, faulty repairs, or improper parts use contributes to an accident. This is why if you ever suspect a problem in the maintenance, and it leads to your truck accident, it’s essential to gather evidence and consult a professional who understands the complexities of these claims.
