When Failing Truck Brakes Cause Serious Accidents

 Posted on November 12, 2025 in Personal Injury

Commercial trucks are enormous machines that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Because of this, their brakes must work perfectly every time. When they do not, the consequences are catastrophic. A truck with failing brakes can plow through traffic and cause serious injuries and fatalities.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a truck accident caused by brake failure, you may be able to recover compensation. A Naperville truck accident attorney can help you investigate what went wrong and take legal action against the trucking company or other responsible parties.

Why Truck Brakes Fail

Truck brakes are complex systems that need constant maintenance. When those systems fail, it usually means something important was overlooked.

The most common causes of brake failure are poor maintenance, worn or defective parts, overloaded trucks, and bad driving. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) require trucking companies to inspect and repair truck brakes. When they cut corners, innocent drivers on the road pay the price.

For example, a company might delay replacing worn brake pads to save money. A driver might ignore the warning signs of failing brakes, such as smoke, vibration, or a burning smell. In some cases, the brakes themselves may be defective.

What Happens When a Truck’s Brakes Fail?

When brakes fail, a truck becomes nearly impossible to control. The driver may try to slow down by downshifting or using an emergency ramp, but in most cases, there is not much time to react.

Brake failure crashes often happen on highways or downhill grades, where stopping distances are long and traffic is heavy. Victims of brake failure crashes often suffer life-changing injuries. Many of these injuries require surgery, long-term therapy, and permanent lifestyle changes.

Who Is Responsible for an Accident From a Truck’s Brakes Failing?

Determining who is at fault in a truck brake failure case requires a careful investigation. The driver may be liable if they failed to perform pre-trip inspections or ignored signs of a problem. The trucking company could be responsible for skipping maintenance, hiring unqualified mechanics, or forcing drivers to operate unsafe vehicles. In other cases, a third-party repair shop or parts maker may share liability.

An experienced attorney will review all the evidence to try to determine what went wrong. Although you have two years from the date of a crash to bring most lawsuits or insurance claims, crucial evidence can disappear quickly. You can give yourself the strongest odds of success by acting quickly.

Meet With a Naperville Truck Accident Lawyer

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, our DuPage County truck accident attorneys represent victims of serious truck crashes. We offer free consultations and Saturday and evening appointments for your convenience.

Call 630-932-9100 today to speak with an attorney about your case. We will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.