The Main Fleet Mechanical Failures

Every day, private car drivers and commercial truckers share our highways, creating a mix of driving skills and behaviors that can be perilous. Since 2015, there has been an alarming increase in highway fatalities. A recent report by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights mechanical failures as a significant, though often underestimated, cause of accidents. Fortunately, addressing mechanical failures is more feasible than currently practiced.

The Hidden Impact of Mechanical Failures

According to a Crash Stats Report, 94% (or 2,046,000) of motor vehicle accidents are due to driver decisions. Mechanical failures account for only 2% (or 44,000) of accidents. However, the NHTSA notes that this figure might be inaccurate due to reliance on external visual inspections of vehicle components, suggesting that mechanical failures are more prevalent than reported.

The Main Fleet Mechanical Failures Leading to Accidents

1. Tires and Wheels

Tire Problems: A Crash Stats report indicates that tire issues account for about 35% of crashes caused by vehicle failures. Common problems include:

• Blowouts: Sudden tire bursts due to over/under-inflation, punctures, or extreme temperature changes, reducing driver control.
• Worn Tires: Degraded treads reduce grip, especially in bad weather, increasing the risk of slips, longer braking distances, and accidents.

2. Brakes

Brake-related Issues: Brake problems contribute to about 22% of crashes caused by vehicle failures, often leading to rear-end collisions. Key factors include:

• Faulty Brake Lines: Leaky lines drain brake fluid, rendering brakes ineffective.
• ABS Malfunctions: Anti-lock Brake System issues increase the risk of wheel lock-up and skidding.
• Worn Discs and Pads: Worn braking components reduce stopping power, extending braking distances and increasing crash risks.

3. Steering, Suspension, Transmission

Combined Issues: Steering, suspension, and transmission problems account for 3% of vehicle failure crashes. These issues are hard to identify post-crash but can significantly impact vehicle control. Regular maintenance can prevent these problems, ensuring better vehicle performance and safety.

4. Headlights and Taillights

Visibility Concerns: Broken or malfunctioning lights reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents in low-light or poor weather conditions. Functional headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights are crucial for safe driving, alerting other drivers to your actions and intentions.

5. Windshield Wipers

Visibility in Adverse Conditions: Effective wipers are essential for clear visibility in rain, snow, or when dealing with road grime. Worn-out wiper blades and faulty wiper motors can severely impair visibility, leading to accidents. Regular checks and maintenance of wiper systems are vital for safe driving.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

Mechanical failures, while not always cited as the primary cause of accidents, can contribute significantly to road hazards. The best defense is a robust preventive maintenance program and cautious driving. Accidents may still occur, but many are preventable with proactive measures.

To minimize the risk of mechanical failures and enhance fleet safety, investing in advanced fleet management solutions is crucial. Owlestic offers comprehensive fleet management software designed to streamline maintenance, track vehicle health, and provide actionable insights, ensuring your fleet operates safely and efficiently. Contact Owlestic today to learn more about optimizing your fleet’s performance and reducing preventable accidents.