For every truck driver, the possibility of experiencing a blowout while on the road is very real and potentially life-threatening. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, blowouts are responsible for 40% of all fatal highway accidents involving trucks. This article will help you identify what causes truck tire blowouts, how to avoid them, and how to handle them if you do experience one.
Whatâs Causes a Blowout?
Truck tire blowouts are caused by a variety of factors, including overloading, underinflation, speed, road conditions, and improper maintenance. Overloading puts too much stress on the tires, causing them to heat up and eventually fail. Underinflation makes the tires more susceptible to punctures and increases the risk of a blowout. Speed increases the centrifugal force on the tires, making them more likely to fail. Road conditions like potholes and bad road conditions can wreak havoc on your tires. Improper maintenance can lead to tread separation or other problems that can cause a blowout.
Truck Tire Blowouts Are More Common In The Summer
Truck tire blowouts are more common in the summer than any other season. The heat causes the air inside the tires to expand, which puts extra pressure on the tires. This can cause the tread to separate from the tire, leading to a blowout. You should always check your tires for signs of damage before heading out on the road. Some of which include bulges, leaks, soft spots or bubbles in the rubber, cracks along the sidewall of the tire, and excessive wear. If you notice any damage, contact a professional right away to prevent an accident that could result in serious injury or death.
Check Your Tires Atleast Once Per Month
Truck tire blowouts are a costly and dangerous accident that can be easily avoided by regularly checking your tires. At a minimum, you should check your tires at least once a week. Hereâs a step-by-step guide to help you avoid a blowout:
- First, inspect the tread depth of your tires. If the tread is worn down, itâs time for new tires.
- Second, check the air pressure in all of your tires. The correct air pressure will be listed on the placard inside your truckâs door frame.
- Third, look for any cracks or bulges in the sidewalls of your tires. These are signs that the tire is damaged and needs to be replaced.
Make Sure You Are Using the Right Tires For Your Truck
If you have the wrong tires or load range on your semi truck, you could experience a blowout. This is when the tire explodes due to too much pressure. A blowout can be dangerous because it can cause the truck to lose control, and it can also be expensive because youâll have to replace the tire and repair any damage from the blow out. You should always check the date of manufacture printed on the sidewall of the tire before purchasing new ones for your rig. If this date is over five years old, then those tires are at risk for exploding or having a major blowout during use. There are also aftermarket companies that will offer cheaper prices for quality replacement tires if youâre willing to wait a few days for delivery.
Carry Emergency Supplies In Case Of A Tire Blowout
Truck drivers should always carry emergency supplies in case of a tire blowout. These supplies can include a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Itâs also a good idea to have a first-aid kit, water, and snacks on hand in case youâre stranded on the side of the road. By being prepared, you can avoid a costly and dangerous accident.
Follow All Driving Rules Carefully
Every year, there are countless accidents caused by truck tire blowouts. Some of these accidents are fatal, and many more result in costly property damage. To avoid becoming a statistic, itâs important to follow all driving rules carefully. This means obeying the speed limit, not tailgating, and being extra cautious in inclement weather. It also means regularly maintaining your truck and its tires according to the manufacturerâs recommendations.
Truck Tire Blowout Warning Signs
Truck tire blowouts are often preventable as long as warning signs are not ignored. If you see any warning signs, itâs important to take action immediately. Here are seven signs that your truckâs tires might be about to blow:
- Uneven wear on the treads
- Cracks or cuts in the sidewalls
- Bulges or blisters on the surface of the tire
- Excessive vibration while driving
- A nail or other object lodged in the tread
- Low tire pressure
- Overheated tires
Need Help Repairing or Replacing A Blown Tire? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!
If youâre in need tire repair, tire replacement, or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.
