Question 1

Who Holds Liability for an Accident Caused by a Semi-Truck Tire Blowout?

Accepted Answer

A recent accident caused by a semi-truck tire blowout killed at least seven passengers on a Greyhound bus headed from St. Louis to Los Angeles on Interstate 40. The tire blowout caused the semi-truck to cross lanes into oncoming westbound traffic, where it crashed into the bus that had 47 passengers on board.   More than 5,000 people died in large truck crashes in 2019, and nearly 160,000 people were injured in truck accidents across the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with 75 percent of those injured passengers of other vehicles. Nearly 360 of those victims were caused by large trucks that had a tire blowout from 2015 to 2019.   There are so many of these accidents that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) considers this semi-truck part defect among the leading causes of all truck accidents.   Here is more vital information and details about semi-truck tire blowout accidents and who holds liability.

Question 2

What Are Common Causes of Semi-Truck Tire Blowouts?

Accepted Answer

There are a few top causes of semi-truck tire blowouts, which happen more often in the spring and summer months when drivers of these larger trucks drive farther, and the temperature of the pavement heats up. It is the perfect combination for a tire blowout.   Some additional factors that could lead to tire blowouts include:  Incorrect Tire Inflation The correct amount of air pressure in a semi-truck’s tires is required to balance the weight of the truck and cargo. If they are underinflated, the materials inside the tire will expand and flex beyond their safe capacity and cause a blowout.  Overloading the Trailer A semi-truck trailer that is overloaded is dangerous even if the tires are correctly inflated for long hauls. There is a reason that large commercial trucks have weight capacities for loads.   Road Conditions Unsafe road quality, such as debris on the road or potholes, can also cause tire blowouts. If a truck hits a pothole hard enough, it could cut the rubber, which can eventually lead to a blowout.  Lack of Maintenance If truck tires are not properly maintained, there is a bigger chance of a blowout. Thorough inspections should be made into uncapped tires that leak, any necessary repairs, and whether or not the tires should be replaced if showing any wear and tear.  Defective Tires The most common type of defect is tread separation, when the tread separates and the belt disconnects from the tire. What causes this? It could be because of bad tire material, incorrect manufacturing, or improper installation. The manufacturer or tire installer is usually at fault and liable for any injuries or damages that result in a tire blowout because of defective tires.

Question 3

Who Else Can be Held Liable for Semi-Truck Tire Blowout Accidents?

Accepted Answer

Other parties that can be held liable for a commercial truck tire blowout accident include:  A tire retailer who sold a tire that was known to be defective at the point of sale A mechanic who serviced the semi-truck and failed to replace or repair the tires – or warn the truck driver about their condition

Who Holds Liability for an Accident Caused by a Semi-Truck Tire Blowout?

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