Improper Truck Maintenance
When a truck falls apart on the road, it’s never just bad luck. Somewhere along the line, someone cut corners—on repairs, on inspections, or on basic safety checks. And when that happens, it’s innocent drivers and families who pay the price. The injuries are often life-altering. The consequences are sometimes deadly. At McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C., we know what it means to stand up to trucking companies and hold them accountable when they put dangerous vehicles on Iowa roads. We don’t back down, and we don’t let them shift the blame.
Iowa Improper Truck Maintenance Lawyer
McCarthy & Hamrock represents people injured in commercial truck accidents due to improper truck maintenance in Des Moines, Polk County, and throughout the state of Iowa. Call our firm at 515-279-9700 to request a free consultation to discuss your injuries and potential claims for compensation. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, which means you don’t pay us any legal fees. Instead, our firm gets a percentage of the settlement or verdict or “contingency fee” upon achieving a victory in your case. Learn more about Iowa truck accidents caused by poor maintenance, including victims’ legal options, potential compensation for plaintiffs, and how an experienced Iowa truck accident attorney can help pursue justice and a meaningful financial recovery.
Overview of Truck Accidents Caused by Improper Truck Maintenance in Iowa
- Common Types of Truck Accidents Caused by Bad Maintenance in Iowa
- Serious Injuries Caused by Poor Truck Maintenance in Iowa Crashes
- Truck Maintenance Statistics That Affect Safety in Iowa
- Determining Who Is Liable After a Truck Crash Caused by Poor Maintenance in Iowa
- How a Lawyer Helps After a Truck Crash Caused by Bad Maintenance in Iowa
- Most Common Questions People Have After a Truck Crash Caused by Poor Maintenance
- Resources
Common Types of Truck Accidents Caused by Bad Maintenance in Iowa
Brake Failure Accidents — These crashes happen when brakes wear out, lose hydraulic pressure, or overheat from poor maintenance. Iowa Code § 321.430 requires every truck to have brakes that meet performance standards, yet many fleets skip regular inspections or delay repairs to save money. When brakes fail, trucks can’t stop in time, especially on highways or at intersections, leading to rear-end collisions or multi-vehicle pileups.
Tire Blowout Crashes — When tires are not inspected or replaced on time, the result can be a sudden blowout. These incidents are common on Iowa interstates where trucks travel long distances at high speeds. Tires with worn treads, sidewall cracks, or incorrect inflation often fail under pressure. Iowa law requires that commercial vehicles be “mechanically and structurally safe,” and that includes tire condition. A blown tire can cause a truck to swerve into other lanes or lose control entirely.
Steering and Suspension Failures — These types of failures often lead to jackknife crashes or rollovers, especially when a truck is turning or braking. The steering system includes power assist components, tie rods, and linkages—all of which need routine maintenance. Under Iowa law, trucks must be able to maintain directional control. Suspension parts also affect how a truck handles curves and bumps. If these wear out or snap, the vehicle becomes dangerous without warning.
Engine or Transmission Failures — When a truck loses power in traffic or can’t downshift on a grade, a crash can follow. These problems arise when engines are not tuned, fluids aren’t changed, or worn parts go ignored. Mechanical breakdowns in the middle of travel lanes create hazards for nearby drivers, especially if the truck stops suddenly or rolls backward.
Lighting and Signal Malfunctions — Poorly maintained trucks often have broken tail lights, non-working turn signals, or burnt-out brake lights. When these lights don’t work, other drivers can’t predict what the truck will do next. Iowa Code § 321.384 requires trucks to have functioning lights during all periods of reduced visibility. When this rule is violated, lane changes, turns, and nighttime travel become dangerous for everyone nearby.
Trailer Detachment and Cargo Loss — When hitches or safety chains are rusted, worn, or not properly secured, trailers can detach from the cab. Cargo may also fall off flatbeds or spill from improperly secured loads. These events are sudden and violent. Iowa law states that a vehicle must not be loaded in a way that endangers others or allows cargo to escape. Poor maintenance of tie-downs, couplers, or lift gates can easily violate this rule.
Windshield Wiper and Defroster Failures — A driver who can’t see in rain, snow, or ice is a danger to everyone on the road. In cold or wet conditions, failure to maintain visibility tools can cause sideswipes, intersection crashes, or vehicles leaving the road entirely.
Fuel System Leaks or Failures — Poorly maintained fuel lines, tanks, or caps can cause diesel or gasoline to leak onto roadways, increasing the risk of fires or slick-road crashes. A truck leaking fuel can ignite after impact or create hazardous conditions for trailing vehicles.
Exhaust System Failures — When a truck’s exhaust system is corroded or damaged, it can release excessive fumes or even start undercarriage fires. This also creates visibility issues for nearby drivers and increases the likelihood of engine overheating. Iowa Code § 321.436 requires that commercial vehicles have a properly operating muffler and exhaust system.
Mirror and Camera System Failures — Trucks must have working side mirrors, backup cameras, or detection systems to monitor blind spots. If these are cracked, missing, or improperly adjusted due to lack of inspection or repair, it becomes almost impossible for the driver to change lanes or reverse safely. Iowa law requires vehicles to have mirrors that provide a clear, reflected view behind and to the sides.
Horn and Audible Warning Device Failures — Horns that don’t work remove the truck driver’s ability to warn other vehicles of danger. It’s also a violation of Iowa Code § 321.432. A truck with a failed horn system can’t signal emergencies or close passes, increasing collision risks, especially in city or construction zones.
Serious Injuries Caused by Poor Truck Maintenance in Iowa Crashes
Severe Burn Injuries — Overheated brakes, leaking fluids, or electrical shorts in trucks that haven’t been properly maintained can cause fires. Victims near the point of impact can suffer deep tissue burns, permanent scarring, and even require skin graft surgeries.
Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis — When steering or suspension parts fail and a truck jackknifes or rolls over, the force of impact can crush the spine. These injuries are often permanent. Victims may lose motor function in their limbs and require lifelong care.
Traumatic Amputations — In some crashes, unsecured cargo or detached components from a truck can directly strike victims or trap limbs during the collision.
Internal Organ Damage — Blunt-force trauma from a tire blowout or a trailer detachment can cause internal bleeding or ruptured organs. These injuries may not be obvious at first but can be fatal if untreated.
Multiple Fractures and Complex Breaks — A crash caused by mechanical failure can send shockwaves through a smaller vehicle, shattering bones in multiple places. Victims might suffer from broken ribs, crushed hips, or fractured skulls.
Truck Maintenance Statistics That Affect Safety in Iowa
Too Many Trucks Fail Inspections in Iowa — According to data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, a large number of commercial trucks operating in the state are pulled out of service each year during safety inspections. Many of these violations involve brake systems, tires, and lighting equipment.
Brake Violations Are the Most Common Issue Found — Enforcement officers in Iowa and nationwide found that brake-related issues were the top reason trucks are taken off the road. These violations include missing brake components, contaminated linings, or out-of-adjustment systems. Problems like these can lead directly to loss-of-control crashes.
Faulty Tires Also Rank High in Violation Reports — Many trucks continue to operate with tires that are worn past legal tread depth, cut, improperly inflated, or damaged. This is particularly concerning because tire blowouts can cause multi-vehicle accidents, especially on highways.
Maintenance Neglect Is a Leading Factor in Truck Crashes — The Iowa DOT and national studies have linked maintenance problems to a significant percentage of truck crashes. Brake failures, steering issues, and lighting defects are often found in post-crash investigations.
Truck Maintenance Records Are Often Incomplete or Missing — In Iowa, trucking companies are expected to keep accurate maintenance records, but during audits and after crashes, these logs are frequently found to be missing or falsified.
Determining Who Is Liable After a Truck Crash Caused by Poor Maintenance in Iowa
Trucking Companies That Ignore Maintenance — When a company puts profit over safety and skips scheduled maintenance, they can be held responsible under Iowa law. Iowa Code § 321.430 requires all commercial vehicles to be in safe condition at all times. If a fleet manager allows trucks on the road with known mechanical issues, the company can be fully liable for injuries or deaths that follow.
Truck Drivers Who Skip Inspections — Iowa law requires that commercial truck drivers conduct pre-trip inspections. If a driver notices a mechanical issue and keeps driving anyway—or fails to check for problems before getting on the road—they may share liability. The law expects drivers to act reasonably and responsibly before operating such large and dangerous vehicles.
Repair Shops That Perform Inadequate Work — If an outside repair service fails to correctly fix a problem or installs a faulty part, they may be liable. A mechanic who overlooks a brake defect or improperly tightens wheel bolts could face claims if a crash occurs.
Parts Manufacturers for Defective Equipment — When the root cause of a maintenance failure is a defective part—like a faulty brake valve or weak axle bolt—the part manufacturer may be liable. Iowa product liability law allows victims to bring claims against manufacturers when the product design or construction is unsafe and leads to harm.
Cargo Loading Companies That Add Dangerous Strain — Some maintenance failures happen faster when cargo is overloaded or badly balanced. Companies responsible for loading freight may be at fault if they ignore proper weight distribution or exceed axle limits. Iowa regulations make it unlawful to load vehicles in a way that creates an unsafe condition.
How a Lawyer Helps After a Truck Crash Caused by Bad Maintenance in Iowa
Truck accident cases require a lawyer who understands the mechanical systems and maintenance rules that apply to commercial trucks in Iowa. An experienced truck accident attorney will immediately investigate whether the trucking company violated laws that require trucks to be mechanically safe at all times. This includes reviewing maintenance logs, pre-trip inspection reports, and any prior violations issued by the Iowa Department of Transportation. These records often expose patterns of neglect or missed repairs that directly caused the crash.
In addition to building a strong case against the responsible parties, the lawyer also handles communication with insurance companies, who often try to deny liability or downplay injuries. These insurance policies are usually commercial and high-limit, and the companies that write them have legal teams working to protect their bottom line. A lawyer experienced in truck maintenance cases will fight for full compensation, including damages for medical bills, future treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In wrongful death cases, they pursue recovery for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional distress. These cases are often more complex than regular accidents, and the trucking company won’t just admit fault. Having a lawyer who can manage both Iowa’s personal injury laws and the specific safety rules governing trucks can make the difference between getting a settlement that barely covers bills—and one that truly reflects what the victim and their family have lost.
Most Common Questions People Have After a Truck Crash Caused by Poor Maintenance
Who’s responsible for keeping the truck in safe condition?
The trucking company is legally responsible under Iowa Code § 321.430, but drivers and mechanics may also be liable.
Can someone sue the truck driver too?
Yes, if the driver ignored known problems or skipped their required pre-trip inspection.
Does Iowa have a deadline for filing these claims?
Yes. Victims usually have two years from the crash date under Iowa’s statute of limitations.
Is the trucking company required to keep repair records?
Yes, companies must maintain service records for each truck as part of their legal safety obligations.
What if a defective part caused the crash?
Then the part manufacturer may also be liable under Iowa’s product liability laws.
Can someone file a claim if they lost a family member?
Yes. Iowa allows wrongful death claims for family members of people killed in these types of crashes.
What if the maintenance issue wasn’t obvious?
Lawyers can investigate deeper records to find hidden negligence or patterns of skipped maintenance.
Do these cases usually go to trial?
Many are settled before trial, but some require court action if liability is denied or damages are contested.
What if multiple people are at fault?
Iowa allows shared fault among several parties, and a lawyer can help hold each one accountable.
How is this different from a normal car accident claim?
Truck maintenance claims involve deeper technical evidence, commercial regulations, and higher stakes with more severe injuries or fatalities.
Resources
FMCSA — Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance (Part 396) —This source explains the federal regulations that require motor carriers to inspect, repair, and maintain commercial motor vehicles. It outlines compliance expectations for vehicle parts and accessories and includes tools like inspection records, compliance checklists, and details on common violations related to vehicle upkeep.
FMCSA — The Impact of Vehicle Maintenance on Safety — This research study by FMCSA examines how vehicle maintenance affects crash risk and safety. It discusses preventative maintenance standards, regulations, and inspection practices. The page summarizes the study’s goals and findings, such as the higher crash rates among carriers with poor maintenance practices, and it identifies effective practices from high-performing carriers.
Iowa Department of Transportation — Rules and Regulations —This source provides information on commercial driver licensing rules in Iowa, including vehicle inspection requirements, hazardous materials, and U.S. DOT number registration.
OSHA — Vehicle Maintenance —This page outlines safety standards that apply to truck maintenance activities regulated by OSHA. It describes hazards related to maintenance tasks and lists relevant compliance rules under federal regulations.
Hire a Commercial Truck Accident Attorney in Iowa | McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C.
If you were injured in a commercial truck accident resulting from improper truck maintenance in Des Moines, Iowa, hire a skilled, experienced personal injury attorney to fight for you. The lawyers at McCarthy & Hamrock, P.C. have more than seven decades of combined legal experience. We represent accident victims the Des Moines area, including Polk County, Dallas County, Story County, Warren County, Marion County, Mahaska County, Adair County, Madison County, and throughout the state of Iowa.
We will seek just compensation for your injuries and help you recover what you have lost. We are not afraid to take on trucking companies and their insurance companies in order to obtain a satisfactory settlement. We are also experienced trial attorneys and we are prepared to go to court if necessary to get justice for you. Call us today at (515) 279-9700 to schedule a consultation.