Right before the Labor-Day weekend, a fatal accident occurred on C-470, involving a semi-truck and a Nissan Pathfinder.
The truck was driving on the eastbound lane on C-470 with a full load of sand and dirt. Suddenly the Semi’s left front tire blew out. As a result, the driver lost control, crossed the median, and crashed into the Nissan Pathfinder in the westbound lane. The truck kept going through the concrete shoulder barrier, and off a 30-foot embankment finally stopping on the bike path.
When first responders arrived on the scene, both vehicles were engulfed in flames . According to the West Metro Fire Rescue, the semi-truck was on top of the Pathfinder at the bottom of the bike path. The truck trailer was dangling off the edge of the C-470 embankment, separated from the cab.
Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
It is such a tragic accident. There are many questions about the cause and the conditions. A loaded truck traveling at high speed (65-speed limit) can create an enormous force and stress on the tires. According to Bridgestone, the world’s largest tire and rubber company, fleets are running heavier loads for longer hours of operation than ever before.
That’s why tire selection and proactive tire maintenance can help truck drivers address problems before they occur.
Truck Tire Safety Tips
Selection: Many of the truck tire failures are preventable. At the foundation of the tire performance, is selecting the correct tires for the job. There are certainly many factors to consider, including the position, application, load capacity, and the route of travel, etc.
Below are two resources with great information about commercial tires for semi-trucks:
- Facts and materials about heavy-duty truck tires
- Commercial Tire Finder
Tire Inflation Pressure: Tire inflation pressure is the most critical and often ignored factor of any tire maintenance routine. The PSI (pounds per square inch) listed on the tire’s sidewall is the maximum working pressure determined by the manufacturer.
According to Michelin, all trucks should be weighed to determine the proper inflation pressure. Follow this quick instruction to weigh your truck and determine the proper inflation pressure level.
Regular Tire Inspection: Frequent hands-on inspections are helpful to identify potential issues and increase safety and optimize uptime. Watch the video below and follow the six-steps from Michelin:
- Check for proper tire inflation.
- Check to ensure the valve caps are properly secured.
- Check tire wear and tread depth.
- Check for tire cuts and damages.
- Check wheel and alignment.
- Inspect suspension components
Disclaimer: While this information can help you inspect your truck, it is only a small portion of knowledge and should not be relied upon as your sole source of information in regard to safely operating a vehicle. Any time you operate a vehicle, no matter what type, ensure you have the proper training, qualifications, and awareness.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer at Franklin D. Azar & Associates
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or financial loss as a result of a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Over the past 30 years, Franklin D. Azar & Associates has represented victims in some of the most complicated and serious personal injury and wrongful death cases arising from defective products.
Our truck accident lawyers have deep knowledge and extensive experience to navigate the legal and technical aspects of your claim, including defective design, manufacturing, and labeling/marketing issues. Call us at (303) 900-5595 or contact us here for a free consultation and no-obligation evaluation of your case.
