Truck Tire Blowout Accidents
A truck tire blowout can make the driver lose control or send tread debris into traffic. Blowouts are usually caused by under-inflation, overloading, worn tread or defects. Federal rules set minimum tread depths for truck tires, so a blowout often points to poor maintenance by the carrier or a defective tire.
What causes truck tire blowouts?
- Under-inflation, which overheats the tire.
- Overloaded trucks.
- Worn tread or damaged sidewalls that should have been caught at inspection.
- Poorly retreaded or mismatched tires.
- Manufacturing defects, sometimes subject to NHTSA recalls.
What tire rules apply to trucks?
Federal rules prohibit operating trucks with tires that have exposed fabric, bulges or leaks, and set minimum tread depths: at least 4/32 of an inch on steering-axle tires and 2/32 on other tires (49 CFR 393.75). Tire checks are part of drivers' inspections and the carrier's maintenance program (49 CFR 396.3).
Who is liable for a blowout crash?
If the tire was worn, under-inflated or overloaded, the carrier and driver are usually liable. If the tire failed because of a defect, the tire manufacturer may be liable under product liability law. Keeping the failed tire and its fragments is essential for an expert to determine the cause.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible when a truck tire blows out?
Usually the trucking company, which must maintain its tires. The tire manufacturer or a retreading company can be liable if a defect caused the failure.
What is the legal minimum tread depth for truck tires?
Federal rules require at least 4/32 of an inch on steering-axle tires and 2/32 of an inch on other tires (49 CFR 393.75).
Can I claim if tire debris from a truck hit my car?
Yes. Debris from a truck tire is the carrier's responsibility, and you can claim for injuries and damage it caused.
Why does the failed tire need to be preserved?
Experts can tell from the tire whether it failed from under-inflation, wear, road damage or a defect. Without it, proving the cause is much harder.
Are truck tires ever recalled?
Yes. NHTSA publishes tire recalls, and a recalled tire on the truck can support a claim against the manufacturer or the carrier that failed to replace it.