Nebraska's Truck Crash Lawyer

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE – Part 3

by | Nov 28, 2017 | Firm News

Image result for semi truck driver preventive maintenance

 

Poor Maintenance Pitfalls 

It is important to report vehicle defects and deficiencies to the motor carrier as soon as they are discovered. Not reporting a problem when it first occurs can have serious consequences for both a driver and his/her motor carrier, including potentially a vehicle breakdown or an accident.

Breakdown costs include more than the parts and labor to get a vehicle up and running once again. Every minute a truck is in the shop or placed out of service, it is not being used to bring in revenue to a carrier. An incapacitated vehicle may incur additional expense, such as:

– Cost of towing; driver wages, meals & lodgings when unable to drive

– Cost of renting another vehicle

– Late delivery charges; lost customers and/or a cargo transfer fee

These costs have a bearing on a motor carrier’s bottom line ~ it’s profitability. This in turn can play a role in a driver’s future compensation & benefits with the company.

If a defective part causes an accident, the costs incurred can include insurance deductibles, higher insurance rates, potential litigation and a tarnished safety record for the carrier. For a driver, it could mean potential citations and fines as well as personal injury.

Source: J.J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

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