Why are Tire Blowouts on Trucks So Dangerous?

Anyone who has seen large transport trucks on the road knows that they have many more tires than passenger vehicles. After all, they are known as 18-wheelers for a reason. It is easy to make the assumption that these additional tires are actually a safety measure, in case an issue with another tire causes it to fail. While that may be true, when a tire fails, it often flies off of the truck, which is known as a tire blowout. Tire blowouts are extremely dangerous, and they can even be fatal. Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident attorney explains further.

Why Do Truck Tire Blowouts Happen? 

There are many reasons why tires on trucks fail. Tires that do not have the proper amount of pressure are the most common reason why blowouts occur, and this is one of the easiest problems to correct. Outdoor temperatures, load weights, and elevation all contribute to the air pressure within tires. Truck drivers should always check the pressure within tires before heading out on the road.

Wear and tear is another reason tire blowouts occur. Tires that are worn out do not have as much tread, meaning it is more difficult for the truck to stop. Worn out tires are much more prone to blowouts than tires with a proper amount of tread. Lastly, hot temperatures also weaken the material within tires, which can cause them to blowout. When truckers drive too quickly, this can also create additional heat and cause a blowout.

The majority of tire blowouts are entirely preventable. Truck drivers should always inspect their tires, check the air pressure, and operate the vehicle in a safe manner at all times to avoid a tire blowout or any other type of accident.

Why are Tire Blowouts So Dangerous? 

Truck tires are extremely heavy pieces of equipment. The most obvious danger is that when they fly off of a truck, they can hit another vehicle. Due to their weight, tires can smash through windshields, and even knock another vehicle off of their path.

The fact that tires can hit other vehicles when they fly off of a truck is not the only danger they pose. Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and when a vehicle loses a tire, there is a very good chance that the driver will lose control of the truck. Tire blowouts result in a shift of motion, and the cargo in the truck may also shift. This change of force happens suddenly and unexpectedly, and can cause the truck to lunge to one side or the other. The driver will have virtually no control over the trajectory of the truck.

Call Our 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in San Antonio After a Tire Blowout 

If you or someone you love has been injured by a tire blowout, you deserve compensation for your injuries. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident attorney can help you claim the full settlement you deserve and ensure your rights are upheld. Call us today at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to request a free review of your case and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

csa.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyplanner/MyFiles/SubSections.aspx?ch=22&sec=64&sub=143