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One of the most dangerous aspects of commercial trucking is the Jake Brake, a supplemental braking system that, while safe when used properly, nonetheless makes a semi truck much more dangerous than other types of vehicles.
Jake brakes can be dangerous when truck drivers need to quickly slow the vehicle. If you have been involved in an accident due to malfunctioning or improperly used Jake Brakes, our experienced Palm Beach Gardens truck accident lawyers can help you explore your legal options in a free case review.
What is a Jake Brake, and why are they dangerous?
The Jake Brake works by opening the exhaust valves after the compression stroke, releasing compressed air and slowing the engine. This disrupts normal combustion and allows the engine to reduce speed without using the wheel brakes.
This supplemental braking system, while effective, also poses a significant hazard: sudden deceleration. Drivers around the semi may anticipate its speed, including slowing and stopping. When an 80,000-pound vehicle suddenly stops, it can cause nearby cars to slam into it.
Jake brakes are also extremely dangerous in inclement weather and icy road conditions. Sudden deceleration can cause a loss of control, in turn causing the truck to jackknife, spin out of control, or roll over.
They’re also dangerous to use without the heavy counterbalance of a fully loaded trailer. If a driver is just driving their cab or has a very light load, the sudden deceleration can cause the wheel to lock up, leading to loss of steering control and a higher risk of a deadly rollover accident.
Finally, Jake Brakes are dangerous because they’re loud. Some municipalities in South Florida prohibit them, and the state of Florida actually has a law against excessive engine noise. The screeching honk of a Jake Brake can cause drivers to startle and swerve into other vehicles. When they’re used for a prolonged period of time, or by multiple trucks, the loud compression brakes can cover the sounds of emergency vehicles or warning honks from other vehicles.
How do compression braking systems factor into truck accident claims?
A driver who uses Jake Brakes inappropriately, or in areas where their use is prohibited, can be considered negligent and, therefore, liable for the crash. If using the compression braking system caused the trucker to lose control and crash into others, then they, and likely the trucking company, will be liable for damages all the other victims suffered.
One of the first things your car accident lawyer will investigate is whether Jake Brake caused the truck accident. This can play a critical role in building a strong case against the trucker.
If you’re hurt in a semi-truck accident caused by a negligent trucker, you have the right to file a lawsuit for damages against the at-fault driver, and often the trucking company, too. You can demand full coverage of all necessary medical care, reimbursement of lost wages, property damage, and a fair amount for your pain and suffering and mental trauma.
Good truck accident lawyers understand the dangers of Jake Brakes and how they contribute to dangerous collisions. Your lawyer may work with an industry expert who can affirm that misuse of the compression braking system was a factor in the crash. A solid case like this can make the insurance company more likely to settle.
Talk to Florida truck accident lawyers about your legal options
Engine braking accidents can be devastating, especially when they involve improper use of Jake Brakes or loss of control on busy roads. If you were involved in an accident caused by a semi truck, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The personal injury lawyers at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath understand how truck braking systems work and know what it takes to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable. We work with accident investigators and industry experts to build strong cases and fight for the justice you deserve.
Call us at (561) 655-1990 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today to get started. Your case review is free, and we don’t get paid unless you win.