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How truckers and fleet owners can maintain brake safety

On Behalf of | Sep 26, 2018 | Trucking Accidents |

The fleet tracking and management systems company Teletrac Navman has some tips to give to truckers and fleet owners when it comes to maintaining brake safety. Truckers in Georgia may remember how the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance conducted its Brake Safety Week, and though they may not have been stopped for an inspection, they will still want to follow these tips so that they don’t endanger themselves and others on the road.

Drivers are encouraged to be proactive and conduct their own equipment inspection. It should only take about 10 to 15 minutes, and any issues can be logged. Following the CVSA’s Brake Inspection Checklist, drivers can look for broken or missing components, cracks on the brake drum and cracked linings and pads, among other things.

They should also make sure their tires are properly inflated, as this will reduce stopping distance and put less wear on the brakes. Defensive driving is a must: truckers should keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, pay attention to road signs and do whatever else will keep them from harsh braking and cornering. Fleet managers should consult telematics data to keep track of unsafe behaviors like harsh braking and set up a training program to address them. With a preventive or predictive maintenance program, managers can ensure regular brake service.

Without the proper safety measures, the risk for truck accidents will only increase. Those who are injured through the negligence of a trucker or the trucking company can file a claim against the latter; if successful, they can be covered for past and future medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost income, pain and suffering and other losses. Since the trucking company will have its own legal team fighting to deny the claim, victims will want a lawyer by their side during the process.

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