Maintenance Neglect in Commercial Trucks

When commercial trucking companies or drivers neglect routine maintenance, the consequences can be devastating. Maintenance failures are a leading cause of preventable truck accidents, often resulting in serious injury or death. At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we represent individuals and families who have been harmed due to poorly maintained commercial vehicles. With offices in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, our firm proudly serves clients across Nashville, Davidson County, and throughout Middle Tennessee. We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and helping injured clients secure the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

Why Maintenance Matters in Commercial Trucking

Commercial trucks are complex machines that travel thousands of miles every week. Their massive size and heavy loads demand constant upkeep to ensure safe operation. Brakes, tires, steering systems, suspension components, lights, and other critical parts must be inspected and repaired regularly. Federal and state laws mandate this maintenance—not just for the safety of the driver, but for everyone on the road. When trucking companies cut corners to save money or drivers ignore warning signs of mechanical problems, the risk of a catastrophic accident increases significantly.

Common Maintenance-Related Truck Defects

Neglected maintenance can compromise nearly every system on a commercial truck. Some of the most frequently encountered and dangerous defects include worn or faulty brake systems, underinflated or bald tires, broken steering or suspension components, malfunctioning lights or reflectors, non-functioning windshield wipers, drivetrain and transmission issues, leaking fuel or oil lines, and faulty trailer couplings or cargo restraints. Any one of these problems can contribute to a crash. When multiple systems are affected, the danger escalates dramatically.

How Maintenance Neglect Leads to Truck Accidents

Failing to inspect, repair, and maintain trucks in accordance with legal standards endangers lives. Brake failure can lead to devastating rear-end collisions. Tire blowouts may cause trucks to roll over or jackknife. Broken or missing lights make it difficult for other drivers to anticipate the truck’s movements, especially at night. Steering defects can result in sudden lane departures or a complete loss of control. Leaking fuel can contribute to fires or environmental hazards, particularly in the aftermath of a crash. In many cases, these failures stem from cost-cutting decisions, inadequate staffing, or pressure on drivers to stay on the road despite known safety issues.

Federal and State Maintenance Regulations

Commercial truck maintenance is regulated by both federal and Tennessee law. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), enforced by the FMCSA, contain specific rules to ensure vehicle safety. For instance, 49 C.F.R. § 396.3 requires systematic inspection, maintenance, and repair of commercial vehicles. Under 49 C.F.R. § 396.11, drivers must complete daily vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs). Annual inspections by qualified personnel are mandated by 49 C.F.R. § 396.17, and 49 C.F.R. § 393 outlines minimum safety standards for essential vehicle parts. Failure to comply with these rules may result in enforcement action and can support a negligence per se claim in a personal injury lawsuit.

In Tennessee, trucks must also adhere to state laws governing vehicle safety and maintenance. Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-204 establishes braking system standards, while Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-7-203 governs equipment safety, tire condition, and load securement. 

Who May Be Held Liable?

Truck accidents caused by maintenance neglect often involve multiple liable parties. Our team conducts thorough investigations to identify all responsible actors. The truck driver may be liable for knowingly operating an unsafe vehicle or failing to complete required inspections. Trucking companies may be at fault for failing to maintain their fleet, ignoring known issues, or skipping inspections. Outside maintenance providers can be held accountable for negligent repairs or missed defects. Parts manufacturers may be responsible if a defective component contributed to the failure. Trailer or cargo owners may also bear liability if their equipment played a role in the accident. Properly identifying all sources of liability is essential to securing full compensation.

How We Investigate Maintenance Neglect

At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., we take an aggressive and evidence-driven approach to truck accident cases. When maintenance neglect is suspected, we work swiftly to try to secure the vehicle for independent inspection. We obtain and analyze maintenance records, daily inspection logs, repair invoices, and technician notes. We also examine black box (ECM) data to understand the truck’s speed, braking activity, and fault codes leading up to the crash. Our team works with engineering and accident reconstruction experts to determine how the failure occurred and who should be held accountable.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Victims of accidents involving maintenance failures may be entitled to a wide range of damages. These may include medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment; lost wages and reduced earning capacity; pain and suffering; and compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement. Property damage to your vehicle and other personal items may also be recoverable. In wrongful death cases, families may seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and the loss of the decedent’s future income. In cases involving egregious conduct—such as falsifying inspection records or ignoring repeated safety violations—punitive damages may also be available under Tennessee law.

What to Do After a Truck Accident Involving Maintenance Neglect

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident and suspect poor maintenance played a role, it’s essential to act quickly. First, call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Make sure a police report is filed and that it includes any observations about potential mechanical issues. If you can do so safely, take photographs of the scene, the truck, any visible damage or fluid leaks, and road conditions. Do not speak with the trucking company or its insurer without legal representation. Contact our office as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights and preserving evidence.

Why Time Matters in Truck Accident Claims

Time is a critical factor in truck accident cases. Many vital records—such as DVIRs, inspection logs, and black box data—are only retained for a short period under FMCSA regulations. Companies may begin repairs, move the truck, or discard evidence soon after the crash. Tennessee law also imposes a strict one-year statute of limitations on most personal injury cases under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-104. If you fail to file a lawsuit one your of the date of the injury , your right to recover damages may be permanently lost. Acting promptly helps ensure that evidence is preserved and your claim is protected.

Serving Clients Across Tennessee

The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. proudly represents clients throughout Nashville, Davidson County, and communities across Middle Tennessee. With offices in Brentwood, Nashville, and Murfreesboro, we are easily accessible and available to meet with you in person or virtually. Our legal team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a truck accident can impose, and we are committed to helping you through the process with integrity, experience, and compassion.

Contact The Law Offices of John Day, P.C.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by maintenance neglect, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. The Law Offices of John Day, P.C. is ready to investigate your claim, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us at (615) 742-4880 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward recovery and justice.