A truck tire blowout can happen suddenly, leaving people injured and uncertain about what caused the crash. A blown tire does not automatically mean the truck driver or trucking company was at fault. Investigators may need to determine why the tire failed and who, if anyone, could have prevented it.
Why the tire failed matters
Federal safety regulations set requirements for commercial vehicle tires. These rules cover tread depth, tire condition, inflation and load limits. Under those regulations, prohibited tire conditions include certain tread and sidewall defects and inflation problems.
After a crash, investigators may examine the tire’s condition and how the truck was operated. A blowout may result from a worn or damaged tire, improper inflation or an overloaded vehicle. Inadequate maintenance or other factors may also play a role.
A defective tire or component may also raise questions about manufacturer, distributor or maintenance provider liability. The answer will depend on the evidence and applicable law.
What evidence can help?
The failed tire and other truck components may be key evidence. If still available, preserve them in their existing condition. Evidence may include:
- Photographs of the truck, tire and crash scene
- The damaged or failed tire
- Truck inspection and maintenance records
- Cargo, loading and weight records
- Tire and vehicle inspection reports
- Witness statements
- Available video footage
- Electronic vehicle data, including event data recorder information
- Police and crash investigation records
The most useful evidence will depend on why the tire failed and how the collision occurred.
What should you do after the crash?
Seek medical attention for any injuries and follow applicable requirements for reporting the collision. Keep records of medical treatment and other losses. Preserve photographs, communications and other information that could help show what happened.
Avoid discarding, repairing or altering the failed tire or any damaged truck components before they can be evaluated. Preserving them is especially important if the cause of the blowout later becomes disputed.
A truck tire blowout does not by itself establish who was responsible. The tire’s condition, maintenance records, loading information and other evidence may help show who contributed to the failure. If responsibility is disputed, an attorney can help evaluate the evidence and applicable law.