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Part of investigating a heavy vehicle accidents includes careful inspection and knowledge of the air brake system. This inspection begins with the engine mounted compressor and includes all of the air lines, tanks, gauges, valves, air chambers, push-rods, slack adjusters, brake shoes (blocks) and brake drums. In order to perform properly, all of the brake components must be in proper balance. A full analysis of the brake system condition at the time of an accident can give insight into the vehicle dynamics. An imbalance in the braking system from side to side or front to rear is the largest cause of jack-knife accidents with a commercial vehicle.
Under 49 CFR Part 392.7 of the FMCSR's, a driver of a tractor-trailer is required to do a daily pre-trip inspection prior to beginning a trip. The motor carrier is required to document via a Driver's Vehicle Inspection Report, 49 CFR Part 396.11 and 396.13, that the inspections are taking place and the maintenance is properly documented.
On a typical 5 axle tractor-trailer there are 108 items the driver must check during the pre-trip inspection. 55 of those items are related to the braking system and its operation, including proper adjustment of the brakes. This inspection requirement is a non-delegable duty for the drivers and the motor carrier must ensure that the brake system is in full compliance with the FMCSR's prior to the commercial motor vehicle being placed on a public highway.
Understanding and being able to demonstrate to a jury how an air brake system works is often a key issue in litigation. Ruhl Forensic has working brake displays that can be utilized in the courtroom for demonstration of the different components, and the effect brake adjustment has on stopping a commercial motor vehicle.
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