Are Trucks Traveling Too Fast for Their Tires?

April 13, 2015by Aaron Allison

We have blogged about the dangers of truck accidents several times in our blog. With this in mind, recently a new study revealed scary numbers indicating that many tractor-trailers are traveling at faster speeds than their tires can handle. Photo of truck

According to the Associated Press, many tractor-trailers are now being driven faster than the 75 mph their tires are designed to handle, which has been linked to wrecks and blowouts nationwide. The news outlet reported that almost all truck tires have been built for a maximum speed of 75 mph over the past decade, even though many states west of the Mississippi River allow trucks to travel at speeds of 75, 80 and even 85 mph. It should be noted that states set their own speed limits.

“Safety advocates and tire experts say that habitually driving faster than a tire’s rated speed can generate excessive heat that damages the rubber, with potentially catastrophic results,” the AP reported.

Keep in mind, from 2009 through 2013, there were more than 14,000 fatal crashes in the U.S. involving heavy trucks and buses. According to the AP, tire blowouts played a role in an estimated 198 of these crashes.

Tire manufacturers are hesitant to make changes to their products, according to the news outlet, because many tractor-trailers already have governors on them that prevent the vehicles from going over 75 mph. The top sellers for truck tires in America are Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Yokohama and Firestone.

Working With an Attorney Following a Truck Accident

As we reported last week, if you are ever involved in a truck accident, it may be in your best interest to speak to an attorney.

A lawyer can help you preserve evidence when it comes to an accident, including documenting when parts like tires fail. He or she can also lead an independent investigation into your case and determine if the manufacturer of the part and/or the truck driver is liable for your injuries.

It is sad that truck accidents are occurring due to a mixture of speeding and parts that are not built to handle the current conditions. Make sure you receive guidance following a truck accident.

The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Personal Injury Attorney

Source: https://www.statesman.com/news/20160924/big-rigs-on-us-roads-often-drive-faster-than-their-tires-can-handle

Aaron Allison