What Is Engine Braking in Truck Accident Cases?

What is engine braking in truck accident cases? Engine braking is a technique tractor-trailer drivers can use to slow the vehicle’s momentum without using the standard friction brakes. Instead, this method uses the engine’s internal resistance to slow the vehicle, but it can play a role in why a truck accident happens.

In some situations, improper use of an engine brake, or Jake Brake as it is referred to, can cause accidents. Speak with a Richmond truck accident lawyer today.

Engine Braking Changes the Way the Truck Slows Down

Jake Brake, also known as compression release or engine braking, is a unique process for slowing a semi truck down. The system will turn the truck’s engine into a large air compressor during the process. The driver can then adjust the exhaust valves on the truck to release compressed air before it is pushed into the engine’s pistons.

Truck drivers often use engine braking to prevent standard wheel brakes from overheating. It can also help minimize the risk of the standard brakes failing, especially on steep downhill grades. Some truck drivers use it as a better way to stop the truck.

However, there are limitations to the way Jake Braking works. It can create a distinctive, loud machine-gun-like roar when being done. When this happens, it can be very worrisome for community members, and some towns actually ban engine brakes because of the sound. However, it can also play a role in why some accidents happen.

For a Free Legal Consultation
Call The Personal Injury Lawyer Hotline.
804-250-5050

Engine Braking Can Contribute to Truck Accident Outcomes

Semi trucks rely on their brakes to slow the vehicle down at a steady pace, ensuring the tractor and trailer come to a stop without striking anyone else. Heavy trucks like this rely heavily on engine braking, so truck drivers must understand the intricacies of using Jake Braking (What is Engine Braking and Why is it Beneficial?).

Most truck drivers know how to perform Jake Braking, and it is not illegal to use it outside warning zones. The process is commonly used, and most truck drivers learn to use it properly to reduce risk to everyone involved.

However, there are several scenarios in which engine braking can contribute to the outcome of an accident. In these cases, often the result of driver oversights, the accident may occur because of Jake Braking, or it may worsen the outcome. Here are some examples of how engine braking affects truck accident cases.

Engine Brakes in Poor Weather Conditions

Jake Braking in bad weather is dangerous, and most manufacturers explicitly warn drivers not to use it when road conditions offer limited traction. One of the most worrisome outcomes occurs when the truck driver uses the engine brake in bad weather, like this, because there is no ability to stop.

If drivers engage in engine braking under these conditions, the sudden, uneven stopping power will cause the trucks’ drive wheels to lock up or skid. This can also lead to jackknife accidents.

Excessive Noise Laws

Note that engaging in engine braking in areas where it is prohibited by law, such as small towns and communities, can shift liability to the driver after an accident. The key here is to demonstrate that the other party was engaging in reckless behavior that led to your injuries and losses. This sudden, unexpected noise can startle other drivers and may lead to a multi-vehicle pile-up.

Instability with Empty Loads

Another high-risk situation occurs when the truck driver uses engine braking on dry pavement with an empty or near-empty tractor. This can also create risk if the truck is bobtailing, or driving without a trailer.

If the truck driver applies heavy braking in these situations, the tires can bounce and break traction. When there is insufficient downward force and the tire grip, sudden deceleration can cause the truck to roll over as the driver loses control.

Let the Heavy Hitters® Take On Your Case 804-250-5050

Proving Negligence in Engine Braking in a Truck Accident

In these situations, where the truck driver engaged in engine braking and then was involved in an accident, the burden of proving what occurred rests with the victim. To prove engine braking contributed to the accident or even caused the accident to occur, you may gather as much evidence as possible.

Examples may include:

Maintenance logs for the vehicle: If the brakes were not properly maintained or had not been serviced in some time, that can increase the use of Jake Braking. Ultimately, this can cause wear and tear beyond normal levels.
Dash camera footage: In some situations, the truck driver may have dash camera footage that shows what happened just before the accident. This footage can provide documentation for concerns such as weather conditions.
The black box accessibility: The black box on board these trucks, called the Electronic Control Module, records what is happening with the engine brake at all times. You can use this type of log to document instances of Jake Braking.
Maintenance logs: Maintenance records can also provide insight into how the vehicle is operated. If a vehicle is poorly maintained, or perhaps the tires are failing, you may use this information to verify your claim.

Every situation is a bit different, but in every case, having an attorney can make a huge difference. Your attorney will gather as much information from videos, photos, and statements as possible to build your case and demonstrate that Jake Braking was occurring. Talk to a Richmond personal injury lawyer today.

Central Virginia's Top Rated Personal
Injury Lawyers 804-250-5050

Set Up a Free Consultation to Review Your Case With Us

If you believe the truck driver’s actions, such as engine braking, caused you to suffer injuries, reach out to our legal team for guidance.

At The Pendleton Law Team, we aim to help you build a strong case and claim against those who hurt you. We are here to help you and to get what you deserve.

The Pendleton Law Team Is Here For You 804-250-5050