Published by J.A. Davis & Associates – San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyers – Truck Accident Lawyers
Texas Highways: Recognizing Mechanical Failures in Commercial Trucks Before They Cause Catastrophic Accidents
Mechanical failures in commercial trucks represent one of the most dangerous hazards on Texas highways. Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and equipment failures transform routine commutes into life-threatening situations without warning. Mechanical failures in commercial trucks contributed to hundreds of fatal accidents across Texas in 2024, and understanding how to recognize the warning signs can provide critical seconds to react. Mechanical failures in commercial trucks are often the result of negligent maintenance practices, and Texas law holds trucking companies accountable for preventable accidents. If you or a family member has been injured due to a trucking company’s failure to maintain their vehicles, legal remedies are available.
The Scope of Mechanical Failure Accidents in Texas
Texas serves as a major freight corridor, with commercial trucks logging millions of miles across the state’s extensive highway system. This volume of traffic, combined with inadequate inspection practices at some trucking companies, creates dangerous conditions for all motorists. In 2024, Texas recorded 38,909 commercial motor vehicle crashes, with 549 proving fatal and claiming 620 lives.
Mechanical defects rank among the leading causes of these accidents. Brake failures and tire blowouts frequently appear in crash investigations, often linked to deferred maintenance schedules designed to maximize fleet utilization at the expense of safety. In 2023, Texas documented 26,298 truck accidents resulting in 443 fatalities. Harris County alone recorded over 6,000 commercial vehicle crashes, reflecting the concentrated risk in high-traffic corridors.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations require pre-trip inspections and regular maintenance documentation. However, violations persist throughout the industry. Identifying warning signs of mechanical distress before a failure occurs provides motorists their best opportunity to avoid becoming another statistic.
Warning Signs of Mechanical Problems in Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks exhibit observable indicators of mechanical distress before catastrophic failures occur. Recognizing these warning signs from nearby vehicles can provide valuable reaction time.
Brake system problems often manifest as visible smoke emanating from wheel assemblies, particularly during descents or when approaching stops. A truck that pulls noticeably to one side during braking or exhibits delayed stopping response may have failing brake components. Overloaded trucks place additional stress on braking systems, compounding risks on steep grades like those found on Interstate 35.
Tire failures present distinct warning signs before blowouts occur. Bulging sidewalls, exposed steel cords, or uneven tread wear indicate tires operating beyond safe limits. Debris trailing from trailers or audible thumping sounds suggest tire damage in progress. At highway speeds, a blowout can cause immediate loss of vehicle control.
Fluid leaks, grinding mechanical sounds, and visibly unstable cargo loads indicate other forms of mechanical compromise. Oil slicks beneath parked trucks or trailing behind moving vehicles suggest engine or transmission failures. Loads that shift visibly during lane changes or turns indicate inadequate securement that may lead to rollover accidents. These indicators appear in approximately 10% of investigated commercial vehicle accidents according to TxDOT records.
Protective Measures for Texas Motorists