Brake Failure Trucking Accident Attorneys in NJ
Dedicated to Serving Victims in Essex County, Hudson County, Passaic County, Bergen County, Union County, and Throughout North Jersey
When a massive commercial truck loses its ability to stop due to brake system failure, the resulting collision can devastate lives in an instant. These catastrophic accidents often leave victims facing life-altering injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and uncertain futures. Unlike typical motor vehicle crashes, brake failure truck accidents involve complex mechanical investigations, federal safety regulations, and multiple potentially liable parties.
At Corradino & Papa, LLC , our truck accident lawyers in New Jersey have dedicated over 25 years to fighting for victims of commercial vehicle crashes throughout North Jersey. With over $500 million recovered and a proven track record of million-dollar settlements in complex truck accident cases, we handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on recovery.
When Truck Brake Failures Lead to Devastating Accidents in New Jersey
Commercial trucks traveling New Jersey's busy highways depend entirely on properly functioning brake systems. When these critical safety systems fail, truck drivers lose control of vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds, creating scenarios where even minor impacts result in catastrophic consequences.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Brake System Failures
Brake system failures in commercial trucks rarely occur without warning signs or underlying maintenance issues. Several recurring factors contribute to these preventable accidents that devastate New Jersey families each year:
- Poor maintenance practices by trucking companies that fail to conduct required inspections or delay necessary repairs
- Overloaded trucks that place excessive strain on brake systems, causing premature wear and overheating
- Manufacturing defects in brake components, including faulty brake pads and defective air brake systems
- Driver error from failing to perform pre-trip inspections, ignoring brake warning systems, or failing to use runaway truck ramps when brake overheating occurs
- Steep grades in mountainous terrain that cause brake systems to overheat from prolonged use during long descents
How We Prove Liability in New Jersey Truck Brake Failure Cases
Successfully proving liability requires comprehensive investigations beyond typical motor vehicle accident claims. Our experienced attorneys work with mechanical engineers, accident reconstruction specialists, and trucking industry experts to build compelling cases establishing negligence.
Federal Trucking Regulations and Safety Standards
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration establishes comprehensive brake system requirements that commercial trucking operations must follow. Violations of these regulations provide powerful evidence of negligence in brake failure cases.
FMCSA Brake Requirements and Inspection Rules:
- Pre-trip brake system inspections must be conducted before every trip and properly documented
- Brake adjustment limits specify maximum allowable brake stroke measurements, triggering mandatory repairs
- Out-of-service criteria require immediate removal of trucks with brake defects exceeding safety thresholds
- Annual brake system inspections by qualified mechanics must be completed and certified
Documentation Requirements for Commercial Vehicles:
- Driver vehicle inspection reports must detail brake system conditions and identify defects
- Maintenance records must document all brake-related repairs, adjustments, and parts replacements
- Roadside inspection reports create official records of brake violations discovered during enforcement
- Electronic logging device data can reveal sudden speed changes, indicating brake problems
Investigating Mechanical Defects and Maintenance Records
Establishing the root cause of brake system failure demands thorough mechanical analysis. Our team immediately preserves the truck and brake components before repair or destruction. We engage qualified mechanical engineers specializing in commercial vehicle brake systems to conduct detailed inspections and identify specific failure mechanisms.
Maintenance records provide crucial evidence of negligent practices. We meticulously review driver inspection reports, maintenance logs, repair invoices, and parts replacement records to identify patterns of neglect contributing to brake failure.
Identifying Responsible Parties Beyond the Driver
Brake failure cases typically involve multiple defendants whose negligent actions contributed to the mechanical failure and resulting collision. Our comprehensive investigations identify all potentially liable parties to maximize recovery opportunities.
Trucking Company Negligence:
- Inadequate maintenance programs that fail to prevent brake system deterioration
- Pressure on drivers to continue operating vehicles with known brake defects
- Cost-cutting measures compromising brake system safety
Brake Manufacturer Defects:
- Design flaws in brake components that cause premature failure under normal conditions
- Manufacturing defects that create weak points in brake system components
- Inadequate testing of brake components under real-world operating conditions
Third-Party Maintenance Provider Liability:
- Improper brake repairs or adjustments that compromise system safety
- Failure to identify and address brake system defects during scheduled maintenance
- Use of substandard or incompatible brake parts that fail prematurely
Maximizing Your Compensation for Truck Brake Failure Injuries
The severe injuries and life-altering consequences of brake failure truck accidents demand comprehensive compensation addressing both immediate needs and long-term impacts.
Types of Damages Available in New Jersey
New Jersey law provides multiple categories of compensation for truck accident victims. Our attorneys work to document the full scope of damages and secure maximum recovery.
Medical Expenses and Future Care Costs:
- Emergency medical treatment, including trauma surgery and intensive care
- Ongoing medical care, rehabilitation therapy, and specialized treatments
- Medical equipment, mobility aids, and home modifications for permanent disabilities
- Prescription medications and pain management treatments
Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity:
- Wages missed during recovery and medical treatment periods
- Reduced earning capacity due to permanent injuries or disabilities
- Lost benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and career advancement
Pain and Suffering Compensation:
- Physical pain and discomfort caused by injuries and ongoing medical treatments
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, and depression resulting from the accident
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to permanent limitations and disabilities
The Importance of Expert Witnesses in Brake Failure Cases
Proving causation and liability requires testimony from qualified experts explaining complex mechanical and regulatory issues. Our firm maintains relationships with leading experts in trucking safety, mechanical engineering, and accident reconstruction who provide authoritative testimony supporting our clients' claims.
Overcoming Insurance Company Tactics and Lowball Offers
Commercial trucking insurance policies provide substantial coverage limits, but insurance companies employ aggressive tactics to minimize payouts. They often dispute mechanical failure claims, arguing driver error caused accidents, or question injury severity.
Our attorneys counter these tactics through comprehensive case preparation, leaving no room for doubt about liability or damages. When insurance companies refuse fair settlements, our attorneys are fully prepared to present cases to juries.
Why Choose Our New Jersey Truck Accident Legal Team?
Proven Track Record with Complex Commercial Vehicle Cases
Our firm has successfully handled hundreds of truck accident cases throughout New Jersey, securing numerous million-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients injured in brake failure accidents. We understand exactly what evidence is needed to prove mechanical failure and which expert witnesses provide the most compelling testimony in these technically complex cases.
No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
We understand that truck accident victims face significant financial pressures. Our contingency fee arrangement ensures quality legal representation remains accessible regardless of financial circumstances. You pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation.
Get a Free Case Evaluation Today
Don't let a trucking company's negligence destroy your future without fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced truck accident lawyers in New Jersey online or call 973-381-1706 for a free consultation.
