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Mastering truck braking techniques is crucial to preventing brake failure in semi-trucks. A fully loaded big rig truck weighs up to 30 tons, and it becomes a deadly hazard when the driver is unable to stop it, especially while traveling downhill. This is part of why brake failure is a leading cause of catastrophic truck accidents on the road.
Sadly, a lot of trucking companies attempt to cut costs and save money by hiring inexperienced or inadequately-trained drivers who simply don’t know how to avoid overheating, which leads to brake failure and loss of control.
Driver Inexperience and Improper Braking Techniques Can Cause Crashes
Overheated brakes are a critical concern in semi-trucks, as they can lead to a decrease in the braking system’s efficiency. The intense heat generated during prolonged braking may cause brake fade, which is the reduction of the brakes’ stopping power. This phenomenon occurs when the brake pads and rotors reach temperatures high enough to compromise their ability to generate friction.
Riding the brakes is a term used to describe the habit of keeping a foot on the brake pedal continuously. This practice can be particularly dangerous in semi-trucks. Constant pressure on the brakes causes excessive heat buildup that results in brake fade or even total brake failure. Drivers should be aware of their truck’s weight so they can adjust their braking technique accordingly, as heavier loads require more braking force, therefore generating more heat.
When driving a semi-truck downhill, proper braking technique is critical to prevent brake failure and ensure safety. It’s crucial for drivers to learn how to use proper braking techniques, such as engine braking and controlled braking, to prevent unnecessary wear on the brake system and ensure road safety. One safe and effective braking practice is to start at the top of the hill in a low gear, allowing the engine’s compression to help control the vehicle’s speed. This technique, known as engine braking, reduces the reliance on the brake system and prevents overheating. It’s also advisable to apply the brakes in short, controlled bursts rather than continuously pressing on them. This method is called snub braking, and it allows the brakes to cool between applications.
Understanding How Experienced Truck Drivers Are Much Safer
Experience is a key factor in mastering braking techniques for semi-truck drivers. Seasoned drivers have the advantage of understanding the nuances of their vehicle’s braking system through real-world practice.
Inexperienced drivers may not have the necessary skills to react appropriately in situations that require quick and decisive braking actions. Without proper training, drivers are more likely to make errors, such as over-relying on the service brakes or not using engine brakes effectively, leading to brake wear and failure. An inexperienced driver’s lack of understanding about the weight and size of a semi-truck can also result in underestimating the distances required to stop the truck safely.
Experienced drivers, on the other had, are more likely to be familiar with the behavior of their trucks during various maneuvers, such as downshifting and using engine brakes effectively. They are also generally better at anticipating potential hazards and making informed decisions about when to brake and when to coast. This knowledge can significantly improve road safety for everyone.
Who Is Liable for Injuries Caused by Unsafe Truckers?
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by truck brake failure, seeking legal representation is a crucial step. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine liability. This includes reviewing the trucking firm’s hiring practice since negligent hiring is a significant concern in the trucking industry. This occurs when businesses fail to adequately screen new employees by checking the driver’s references and safety record before entrusting them with operating a large, unwieldy vehicle.
In addition to reviewing the driver’s safety record, training, and experience, your truck accident attorney can also examine the truck’s maintenance and inspection records. If the trucking company neglected to take sensible precautions to prevent injuries caused by brake failure, then company owners and supervisors may be liable for resulting injuries and fatalities.
Truck drivers are also required to perform pre-trip inspections prior to every haul they make by federal regulation. Furthermore, trucking companies must conduct regular inspections that include thoroughly evaluating all the components of the braking system, including pads, linings, drums, rotors, and fluid levels. Adherence to a strict service schedule, in compliance with manufacturer recommendations and transportation regulations, ensures that potential problems are addressed before they escalate into safety hazards. Proactive maintenance contributes to the overall safety of everyone along the highway.
Call Our Trucking Accident Lawyers in Santa Barbara for Legal Help
For over 30 years, the attorneys at NordstrandBlack PC have been getting justice for truck accident victims in Santa Barbara and throughout California.
Our talented trial lawyers have successfully recovered millions of dollars in settlements and judgments for our clients. The independent rating agency Martindale-Hubbell has also awarded our firm with an AV Preeminent Rating, and NordstrandBlack PC has a perfect 10.0 rating from Avvo.
Speak with one of our Santa Barbara truck accident attorneys by calling our office at (805) 962-2022 — you can schedule a FREE consultation today.