Brake failure in large commercial trucks and buses is a serious issue that contributes to deadly crashes on Nevada’s roads and highways. As experienced accident injury lawyers, we urge all commercial vehicle operators to understand the common causes of brake failure and take preventative action.
Brake System Components and How They Fail
Commercial vehicle brake systems are complex, with multiple components that can malfunction. Some common issues include:
Air Brakes: These are the most common brakes used on large trucks and buses. The system operates by compressing air which pushes brake pads against the wheel rotors when braking is applied. Failure can occur due to loss of air pressure, air leaks in lines or valves, valve failure, or ABS-related problems. Any of these can lead to complete or partial brake failure.
Hydraulic Brakes: Some smaller trucks use hydraulic brakes, where brake fluid is pushed through lines to actuate calipers and cylinders at each wheel. Problems like fluid leaks, blown seals, air bubbles in the fluid, worn brake pads or rotors, or malfunctioning calipers, cylinders, hoses and valves can reduce braking capability.
Mechanical Components: In both air and hydraulic brakes, there are mechanical parts like S-cams, brake shoes, springs, and bushings that transfer force to the wheels. If these wear out from use, they will reduce the braking force applied. Worn bushings, stretched S-cams, or broken return springs are common mechanical causes.
Electrical Components: Modern brake systems rely on electrical sensors, modules and controllers to operate features like ABS and stability control. Damaged wires, corroded connections, and failed sensors or control modules can disable these safety systems and cause brake failure.
If any of these components are not properly maintained, they can degrade and eventually fail without warning. Regular inspection and servicing is crucial.
Statistics on Truck Crashes in Nevada
The risk posed by brake failure is evident in statewide crash data:
- Per Nevada Department of Transportation data, there were over 15,000 crashes involving commercial trucks and buses in 2019 alone. These resulted in more than 500 deaths and over 4,500 injuries.
- Truck accidents are a major contributor to highway fatalities, according to the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety.
- Speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and brake failure are frequently involved in truck crashes, based on Zero Fatalities Nevada statistics.
- Monthly fatality reports from the Office of Traffic Safety reflect the ongoing occurrence of truck accidents and other deadly crashes on Nevada roads.
These statistics demonstrate why brake failure is such a critical maintenance issue for commercial vehicles. A failure at highway speeds can easily cause a catastrophic multi-vehicle accident with major injuries or fatalities, and all victims will need an experienced truck accident lawyer Sparks NV by their side.
Top Causes of Brake Failure and How to Prevent Them
Through proper inspection and maintenance, most brake failures can be avoided before they occur:
1. Air System Leaks
The air system must maintain sufficient pressure to operate brakes. Slow leaks over time or sudden large leaks can lead to brake loss. Drivers should check air lines and fittings regularly for any audible leaks or visible corrosion. Air pressure gauges should be monitored for very slow drops in pressure over hours, which indicates small leaks. Air tanks should be drained daily to remove moisture that damages components. Any worn or damaged air lines and fittings should be promptly replaced to prevent failures.
2. Contaminated Air System
The air system pulls outside air which contains moisture and debris. The moisture can corrode valves and other components, while debris can jam valves. Daily draining of the air tanks helps remove some contaminants. Better protection is provided by installing air dryers which filter the incoming air before it enters the tanks. This removes moisture and particles, preventing damage.
3. Worn Brake Pads and Rotors
The friction material on brake pads wears down over time. As it gets thinner, braking performance reduces. Rotors also wear from repeated contact with the pads. Inspections should be done at least monthly or per the manufacturer’s specifications. Pads and rotors must be replaced when they reach the end of their service life. Letting pads wear down to the metal backing plate can damage rotors and completely lose braking.
4. Brake Fluid Maintenance
Moisture buildup in hydraulic brake fluid will cause corrosion in the system. The fluid also degrades over time. Hydraulic systems should be flushed annually to remove moisture and old fluid. Only use the brake fluid recommended by the manufacturer, as different types can damage components. The master cylinder reservoir should be checked monthly to make sure fluid is at the proper level. Low fluid allows air in, reducing braking power.
5. Mechanical Component Wear
The S-cams, brake shoes, rollers, springs, and other mechanical pieces wear over many brake cycles. S-cams become flattened and lose their effectiveness if not lubricated. Bushings and rollers can deteriorate as well. These components should be lubricated as specified. Any excessive wear or damage should be corrected immediately.
6. Sensor and Electrical Failure
The ABS, stability control, and other electronics rely on sensors and wiring in good condition. Wheel speed sensors and connectors exposed to the elements are prone to corrosion. Sensors should be inspected for debris/damage and cleaned periodically. Diagnostic trouble codes set for sensor issues must be addressed quickly. Damaged wires also cause malfunctions and need prompt repair.
7. Improper Brake Adjustment
Brakes must be adjusted to the proper specifications for full pad contact with the rotor. Over-adjustment causes rapid wear, while under-adjustment reduces braking capability. Diagnosing and correcting adjustment issues is key.
Consistency is key – establishing regular inspection and maintenance intervals based on mileage, operating conditions, and work schedules. Nevada law also requires commercial vehicles to undergo annual inspections.
By identifying issues early, repairs can be made before catastrophic brake failure occurs. But if you are injured in a truck accident caused by brake failure, contact a Sparks truck accident attorney from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys immediately to protect your rights. Our experienced Nevada truck accident lawyers have helped hundreds of injured victims get the compensation they deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation at 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946).
