Common Causes of Tire Blowout Truck Accidents
One of the most dangerous issues you will encounter while traveling during the summer is tire blowouts, which contribute to approximately 11,000 tire-related crashes per year. When a commercial truck is involved, serious injuries are more likely to occur. Proper tire inflation is critical to remaining safe on the road and keeping others safe while traveling. If you or a loved one has fallen victim to a truck accident caused by a tire blowout, our Nashville truck accident lawyers are here to address your concerns.
Underinflation
Low tire pressure is a leading cause of truck accidents, leading to excessive flexing of major tire components, including the steel belts, rubber, and fabric. This built-up heat inside the tire can cause the rubber and steel belts to separate, weakening the tire’s structural integrity and preventing it from supporting the truck’s weight. With a laden truck weighing up to 80,000 pounds, this is sure to be a recipe for disaster.
Overinflation
Since high temperatures already cause gas to expand, increasing a tire’s PSI, an overinflated tire can be particularly dangerous. Overinflation makes tires more rigid and prone to bursting on impact, especially when driving over potholes, debris, or uneven pavement. When driving at highway speeds, passenger motorists’ lives are at risk.
Wear and Tear
Tires lose their structural integrity over time, making it important to replace them once they have reached the end of their mileage or service life. Even if treads appear to be in acceptable condition, routine maintenance cannot be skipped. Although retreads are cheaper than tire replacement, they are more prone to separation under heavy loads or high speeds.
Overloaded Vehicles or Uneven Weight Distribution
Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) measures the maximum total weight that a vehicle can handle (including the weight of the truck and trailer combined). While 80,000 pounds is the GVWR of commercial vehicles, not all trucks are designed to transport that weight. Overloading puts excessive stress on the tires, leading to overheating and blowouts. In addition, uneven cargo loading can concentrate excess weight on certain axles or tires, leading to a similar outcome.
Delayed Repairs
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the federal standards for maintaining commercial motor vehicles. Under §396.3(b), motor carriers must routinely inspect, repair, and maintain motor vehicles under their control for 30 days or longer. Moreover, they must keep a maintenance record that shows the date and type of any inspection or repair, as well as the nature and date of any inspection or maintenance to be performed.
According to §396.17, commercial motor vehicles must be inspected at least once every 12 months. Additionally, under §396.11, drivers must complete a post-trip inspection report at the end of each driving day, listing any defects or deficiencies that could inhibit safe operation of the vehicle or mechanical failure. This prevents small punctures, sidewall cuts, or bulges in tires from being left unattended.
High Speeds Over Long Distances
As previously mentioned, excessive heat can cause a tire’s pressure to rise, leading to tire expansion. When combined with high speeds over long distances (i.e., highway driving), tire blowouts are more likely to happen.
Defective Tires
While you may think of a tire blowout being the result of poor cargo loading, inflation issues, or damage, a defective tire can also be the culprit. A defective tire can cause weak sidewalls, improper curing, or belt separation, rendering the tire unable to carry the truck’s weight and potentially leading to a blowout. However, there is a difference between a manufacturer’s defect and maintenance failure, with the former often requiring expert testimony.
Building Your Truck Accident Case
A tire blowout can lead to jackknifing, rollovers, and other potential accidents. The resulting injuries can cost you thousands in medical bills and lost earnings. When your injuries and vehicle damage are due to another’s carelessness, you deserve maximum compensation.
At Raybin & Weissman, our Nashville truck accident attorneys will gather maintenance records, black box data, and the truck driver’s logs to determine the source of your truck accident. If a party is resistant to providing information, we will take the necessary legal action. With our personal injury team by your side, you can rest assured that your accident will be investigated thoroughly.
Contact Our Nashville Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a family member has suffered an injury due to a truck accident or a tire blowout, the legal team at Raybin & Weissman is happy to assist you. For 50 years, our Nashville truck accident attorneys have helped injured parties recover the full extent of damages. To schedule your free consultation with one of our legal professionals, contact us online or by calling (615) 256-6666 today.