The Dangers of 18-Wheeler Blowouts
Driving can present many dangers and hazardous situations. You have to worry about other drivers maneuvering erratically, construction work, animals crossing the road, and inclement weather.
Even though you may not think about it, you need to be concerned about truck tire blowouts. A blowout can occur anywhere at any time, but several factors increase its likelihood.
In an accident involving a commercial truck tire blowing out, drivers who share the road with trucks must understand how and why these accidents occur.
What causes an 18-wheeler truck tire to blow out?
Tire blowouts result from a truck’s tire bursting and suddenly losing air, often increasing the risk of the truck swerving or careening violently out of control as the tire and rubber of the tire are sent flying into traffic. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that in 2019,” ‘Other Working Vehicle’ and ‘Tires’ were the most common vehicle-related factors for large trucks in fatal crashes.”
Tire blowouts can occur for various reasons, some more preventable than others and some more common. There are several reasons why truck tires blow out, including:
Under Inflated Tire Pressure:
Low tire pressure is the most common cause of tire blowouts. The following factors affect tire inflation: tire damage, wear on valves, and temperature fluctuations. All of these methods can cause a tire to lose air. Truck drivers must regularly check the air pressure in their tires, and there are several options available to them, such as digital tire monitoring systems. With these tools, you can instantly check the air pressure in all the tires, preventing them from becoming underinflated without the driver noticing.
Mechanical problems.
Taking care of and updating all parts of the tire is essential. Besides the tread and rubber of the tire, bolts, kingpins, ball joints, and wheel bearings are also included. The tire will wear down faster when worn, damaged, or lost.
Tires that are mismatched.
A tire blowout can occur when the tires in dual positions on a truck do not have the same type of tread, their tread patterns differ, or their air pressure differs even slightly. If a truck driver suspects their tires are different types (by checking the tread depth on each tire), they should replace them to match exactly. Tires that are not matched cause premature wear and tear, and if tires are inflated with as little as a 5 PSI difference, they will have the same result as mismatched tires.
The incorrect installation or improper equipment.
Equipment that determines how the tires are oriented, or having the wrong tires for the occasion, can cause undue wear, making them weaker and more prone to blowouts. Tires that are not appropriately seated and axles that are not aligned properly fall into this category.
The operation of the truck in a manner that wears out the tires unnecessarily.
Tires can wear out when the driver uses too much torque. It is possible to avoid this situation by not turning the steering wheel so aggressively or not driving so fast, but sometimes this is impossible. They should be rotated frequently to even out the wear on the tires. Going too fast on super single tires is another way truckers wear down their tires. For commercial trucks, super single tires are an increasingly popular option. The tires on these trucks can also wear out if they are driven too fast, so truck drivers are advised to follow the speed limit.
Hazards and impacts on the road.
Most drivers think of this as the most common cause of tire blowouts. It is easy to spot evidence of this damage when the tire is examined later, whether caused by a deep pothole or running over a sharp object.
Regardless of what causes the truck’s tire to blow out, the damage it causes and the drivers around it is just as dangerous.
When a tire blows out, what kind of injuries can occur?
Damage can be devastating when a large, thick piece of hot tire plummets into traffic at high speeds. As well as wrecking a car, it can also cause severe injuries to the drivers and passengers. Car accidents caused by truck tire blowouts can cause the following injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis (quadriplegia/tetraplegia and paraplegia)
- Back Injuries.
- Burns.
- Internal injuries.
- Fractures and broken bones.
- Disfiguring facial injuries and scars.
- Limb loss and amputation.
It is more likely that motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians will suffer catastrophic injuries on the road due to their less protected status.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer is vital for several reasons.
First, a personal injury lawyer has the knowledge and expertise to navigate the legal system and advocate on your behalf. They are familiar with the laws and regulations that apply to your case and can help you understand your rights and options. This is especially important if you need to become more familiar with the legal process or are facing an insurance company trying to lowball your settlement offer.
Second, a personal injury lawyer can help you get your deserved compensation. The damages from a personal injury can be significant, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer will know how to value your damages and negotiate with the other party to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Finally, hiring a personal injury lawyer can take the burden off of you. Pursuing a personal injury claim can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. By hiring a lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal aspects of your case. This can give you peace of mind and allow you to move on with your life.
Hire The Injury Lawyers North Carolinians Trust!
When injured in a motor vehicle accident, there are many questions you may have about how to proceed. In most cases, it is wise to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action. King Law Firm is here to help. The benefits of hiring an experienced attorney at King Law Firm are clear; they can help you win your case and receive the compensation to which you may be entitled.
With the attorneys at King Law Firm’s expertise in personal injury law, they will be able to assess the extent of your injuries, review medical bills and accident reports, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, represent you in court if necessary, and ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly. Furthermore, having a knowledgeable legal team by your side can provide peace of mind as they work diligently to protect your rights.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, don’t waste valuable time; contact King Law Firm today for a 100% Free Case Consultation. Our promise to you is, We Will Fight To Make It Right!