Automatic Braking Systems, Trucks, and Collisions
In the trucking industry, where heavy loads and long distances are the norms, Automatic Braking Systems (ABS) play a vital role in reducing the risk of collisions. Yet like any mechanical system, brake systems require maintenance. After being involved in a truck accident caused by a failure in the vehicle’s ABS, connect with a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer.
Why Install Braking Systems in Trucks?
ABS is a computerized system that automatically modulates the brake pressure to prevent the wheels from locking up during an emergency stop. It helps the driver maintain steering control while braking. This is especially important in large trucks because, due to their size and weight, they are more difficult to control in emergency situations than passenger cars. A locked wheel on a truck can lead to a loss of steering control, jackknifing, or even a rollover.
When a driver slams on the brakes, ABS sensors monitor the speed of each wheel. If a wheel is about to lock up, the system automatically reduces the braking force to that wheel, preventing it from skidding. This process happens multiple times per second, allowing the vehicle to slow down safely without losing traction.
In the United States, ABS has been mandatory for all new commercial trucks since 1997. This decades-old regulation illustrates that the ability of ABS to enhance road safety is well understood.
What Happens When an ABS Fails?
While ABS is a reliable system, it is not immune to failure, especially if it is not properly maintained. Common issues that can arise include:
- Sensor malfunctions. The ABS relies on sensors that monitor wheel speed. If these sensors become dirty, damaged, or misaligned, they can send incorrect information to the system, leading to improper braking responses.
- Electrical failures. An electronic system, ABS malfunction can be connected to wiring issues, blown fuses, or software glitches. When this happens, the ABS warning light on the dashboard will typically illuminate, signaling a problem.
- Hydraulic problems. If there is a leak or a blockage in the hydraulic lines, the system may not be able to modulate the brake pressure correctly, leading to brake failure as ABS controls the brake fluid pressure in the system.
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure that all of the components of a truck’s braking system are functioning correctly. While ABS issues are possible, brake failures are often preventable with routine checks and timely repairs.
When braking systems fail, the risks of traffic incidents increase significantly, particularly for large trucks. If you suspect a faulty system led to your accident injury, a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer will investigate the cause of the accident, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Can you secure financial relief after an accident involving a commercial truck? Share the specifics of your accident injury with the lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez. You have rights after being harmed by a negligent party in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, or Pompano Beach, and skilled attorneys are available to investigate your case. Call 561-660-9421 today to schedule a confidential consultation.
