Braking Ability or Stopping Distance

Truck accidents in Prince George's County frequently occur due to preventable issues, such as faulty brakes or an inability to stop in time. When large commercial vehicles fail to operate safely, the consequences can be catastrophic for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. A Prince George's County truck accident lawyer can analyze the factors that led to your crash and pursue the compensation you need to recover. Braking failures, in particular, are a common issue that endangers everyone on the road.

At Foran & Foran, we take the time to understand the unique circumstances of each case, including those involving braking system failures. Our team is ready to uncover the truth and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case with an experienced truck accident attorney who will prioritize your needs and rights.

Stopping distance refers to the space a vehicle needs to stop completely after the brakes are applied. Due to their size and weight, large commercial trucks have a significantly longer stopping distance than passenger vehicles. Wet or slippery roads and poorly maintained brakes only exacerbate this issue, increasing the risk of serious accidents.

Statistics reveal that trucks require significantly longer stopping distances compared to other vehicles, posing increased risks in emergency situations. Maryland regulations specify that vehicles traveling at 20 miles per hour must meet certain stopping requirements during on-road testing: passenger cars must stop within 25 feet, while light trucks, vans, and multipurpose passenger vehicles must stop within 30 feet. For large trucks, these distances are considerably greater, particularly when braking systems are not properly maintained or calibrated. The challenge of stopping safely becomes even more pronounced in adverse weather conditions or on downhill grades, where inadequate braking capability can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Braking system failures in trucks often result from a combination of mechanical issues, inadequate maintenance, and driver errors. Common causes include:

Worn brake components: Brake pads, rotors, and drums can deteriorate over time, reducing braking efficiency.

Poor maintenance: Trucking companies are responsible for routine inspections and repairs, but cost-cutting measures often lead to skipped maintenance.

Overheated brakes: Prolonged or excessive braking, especially on downhill slopes, can cause brakes to overheat and fail.

Air brake malfunctions: Many trucks rely on air brake systems, which require consistent pressure to function correctly. Leaks or pressure imbalances can lead to complete brake failure.

Each of these issues increases stopping distance and puts drivers and others on the road at risk. A Prince George's County truck accident attorney can investigate maintenance records, repair logs, and manufacturer defects to identify the root cause of a braking failure.

Determining liability in truck accidents involving braking failures can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Some of the most common liable parties include:

Truck drivers: Operators must understand their vehicle's braking capabilities and avoid excessive speeds or risky maneuvers.

Trucking companies: Employers ensure proper maintenance and train drivers to handle braking emergencies.

Brake manufacturers: Defective brake components can lead to catastrophic failures, making manufacturers liable under product liability laws.

For example, Maryland regulations require the use of roller-type brake dynamometers to test braking effort and imbalance. If a trucking company fails to conduct such tests or knowingly operates trucks with faulty brakes, they can be held accountable for accidents resulting from their negligence.

"Speed too fast for prevailing conditions" is the most frequently cited cause of truck accidents, highlighting the relationship between speeding and braking distance. Trucks traveling at high speeds require much longer stopping distances, making it difficult to avoid collisions in emergencies.

This issue is hazardous in Prince George's County, where urban areas and highways often see dense traffic. Drivers who speed on these roads reduce their ability to stop safely, endangering everyone around them. Fatal truck accidents frequently involve scenarios where the truck driver was traveling too fast to stop in time.

Maryland has specific regulations for testing the stopping distance of trucks, both on-road and at testing stations. These regulations include:

On-road tests: Vehicles must stop within designated distances at 20 miles per hour.

Station tests: Roller-type brake dynamometers evaluate braking effort and balance. The rollers must be clean, smooth, and free of oil or grease.

Axle-specific testing: Front and rear brakes are tested separately to ensure compliance.

These standards enhance safety, but trucking companies' noncompliance often leads to accidents. Victims of such incidents may benefit from consulting a Prince George's County truck accident lawyer to determine if regulatory violations played a role in their crash.

Insufficient braking systems or extended stopping distances in trucks are common causes of devastating crashes. These preventable accidents demand accountability. Foran & Foran, P.A. offers experienced representation for victims of truck accidents, including those caused by inadequate braking systems. As respected Prince George’s County truck accident attorneys, we provide a client-centered approach, meeting clients at home or in the hospital when necessary. Call 301-441-2022 or use the secure online form to schedule a consultation.