What You Should Know About Truck Maintenance Records and Liability in South Carolina

When a commercial truck is involved in an accident, one of the most crucial pieces of evidence is the vehicle’s maintenance records. These documents provide insight into whether the truck was properly serviced and if any mechanical failures contributed to the crash. In South Carolina, trucking companies and drivers are required to follow strict federal and state maintenance regulations, making these records key in determining liability.

The Importance of Truck Maintenance in Preventing Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that commercial trucks undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Despite these regulations, mechanical failures due to poor maintenance remain a significant cause of trucking accidents. Common maintenance issues that can lead to accidents include:

• Brake Failures:

According to FMCSA data, brake-related issues account for nearly 30% of truck accidents.

• Tire Blowouts:

Worn or underinflated tires are a leading factor in highway crashes.

• Steering and Suspension Problems:

Poorly maintained steering mechanisms can make trucks difficult to control, especially at high speeds.

• Lighting Failures:

Faulty headlights or brake lights increase the risk of nighttime collisions.

How Truck Maintenance Records Can Prove Negligence

When a truck accident occurs, the vehicle’s maintenance records can serve as critical evidence in determining fault. These documents can help establish:

• Non-Compliance with Federal and State Laws:

If a truck has missed required inspections, the company may be in violation of FMCSA regulations.

• Failure to Address Known Issues:

If maintenance records indicate repeated mechanical problems without proper repairs, it may point to negligence.

• Lack of Regular Inspections:

Gaps in maintenance logs may suggest that required upkeep was skipped, increasing liability for the trucking company.

South Carolina Laws on Truck Maintenance and Liability

In South Carolina, trucking companies must comply with FMCSA regulations as well as local laws. The state imposes strict liability on commercial carriers that fail to maintain their fleet properly. This means that in many cases, the company—not just the driver—can be held responsible for an accident if poor maintenance played a role.

How CFJ Injury Lawyers Can Help You Navigate the Truck Accident Process

At CFJ Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases. Our team has been helping clients in South Carolina for over 40 years, ensuring they receive the legal support they need to seek justice and compensation. Truck accident claims can be overwhelming due to the involvement of large trucking companies, insurance carriers, and federal regulations. That’s where we step in.

Our lead attorney, Catherine F. Juhas, is licensed to practice in South Carolina, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and the U.S. District Court of South Carolina. With extensive experience in personal injury law, Catherine has represented countless clients in trucking accident cases. As an Adjunct Professor at the Charleston School of Law, she brings a deep understanding of legal intricacies to every case.

Attorney Eric Saleme, who has been advocating for personal injury victims since 2013, plays a key role in our truck accident litigation. Fluent in Spanish, Eric ensures that South Carolina’s Latin-American community has access to skilled legal representation. His commitment to client advocacy is reflected in his extensive pro bono work and hands-on approach to personal injury law.

Our firm works diligently to:

• Investigate truck maintenance records to determine if negligence played a role in the accident.
• Gather evidence such as driver logs, black box data, and inspection reports to strengthen your claim.
• Negotiate with insurance companies and trucking corporations to secure a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if necessary to fight for the compensation you deserve.

South Carolina Truck Accident Statistics

• In 2022, South Carolina saw over 5,000 commercial vehicle crashes, with many linked to mechanical failures.
• The state ranks among the top 10 in the U.S. for fatal truck accidents per capita.
• Over 40% of South Carolina truck accidents involve vehicles with prior maintenance violations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long are trucking companies required to keep maintenance records?

A: FMCSA regulations require companies to retain maintenance records for at least one year while the vehicle is in service and for six months after it is no longer in use.

Q: What should I do if I suspect poor maintenance caused my truck accident?

A: It’s crucial to seek legal guidance immediately. CFJ Injury Lawyers can help you obtain maintenance records and analyze them for potential negligence.

Q: Can I file a claim if the trucking company is out of state?

A: Yes. If the accident occurred in South Carolina, our team can handle claims against out-of-state trucking companies and their insurers.

Q: What compensation can I seek in a truck accident case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, depending on the details of your case.

Contact CFJ Injury Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident due to suspected maintenance failures, CFJ Injury Lawyers is here to help. With over 40 years of experience, our team has successfully represented numerous clients in South Carolina, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.