Commercial trucks weigh much more than smaller passenger vehicles, so these vehicles must have functioning brake systems and drivers who know how to slow the trucks when travelling downhill. However, this does not always happen, and when a truck’s air brake system fails, it endangers everyone on the roadway.
According to Transport Topics, brake failure issues are among the leading causes of modern truck crashes, contributing to 29.4% of all commercial truck wrecks. Most instances of brake failure arise from one of two conditions.
Driver Mistakes
Many truck crashes caused by air brake failure can be avoided, and most brake failure issues stem from driver error. One common mistake is when truck drivers “ride” the brakes while going downhill, which is unsafe. This practice can lead to premature brake fade, reducing the brake system’s effectiveness.
Instead of riding the brakes, truck drivers should use jake brakes when available. They should also use the air brakes intermittently when going down steep hills to prevent overheating and potential brake system failure.
System Malfunctions
Sometimes, air brake system malfunctions contribute to commercial truck crashes. Air brakes need to receive a steady air stream to function as intended. When something inhibits this stream of air, the brakes may apply themselves, leading to a loss of control for the driver.
Research shows that younger truck drivers who have less driving experience are more prone to the behaviors that often contribute to air brake failure.