Truck accidents are a common concern when traveling on the roadways of Queens and across the state, inflicting significant injuries and casualties. In 2021 alone, the toll of commercial truck accidents resulted in 5,788 lives lost in crashes across the nation, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This was a significant 17% increase from the preceding year, 2020. Moreover, an estimated 154,993 individuals injured in accidents involving large commercial trucks in 2021, emphasizing the widespread impact of these collisions. The common occurrence of these accidents becomes evident, when reviewing the staggering 523,796 large trucks involved in police-reported traffic crashes throughout 2021. Among the various types of truck accidents, truck tire blowouts stand out as a particularly common cause of commercial truck accidents, and are capable of triggering catastrophic events on the busy roads of Queens.
A truck accident lawyer Queens is well acquainted with the devastation and life-altering consequences that often are associated with truck tire blowouts. While a truck accident lawyer near you may witness firsthand the aftermath of these types of motor vehicle accidents, they also understand that there is a common misconception held by many. Many victims of truck tire blowout accidents believe that they are random events, and seeking compensation seems futile. However, this belief couldn’t be further from the truth. Truck tire blowouts are often preventable occurrences, stemming from various factors. Recognizing this, truck accident lawyers advocate for victims’ rights, and in many cases, prove that they can indeed seek compensation for the injuries and damages resulting from these accidents. Therefore, it is important for drivers to be aware of the causes of truck tire blowouts, as this knowledge can empower them to protect their rights and pursue justice in the event of an accident.
What Is A Truck Tire Blowout?
A truck tire blowout occurs when the integrity of a truck’s tire is compromised, which then leads to the air being able to escape in a sudden and forceful release of air pressure. This can happen due to various reasons, some random and some caused by negligence. When a blowout occurs, the tire rapidly deflates, causing the truck to lose control to the point where it could potentially veer off course or collide with other vehicles. The suddenness and unpredictability of a commercial truck tire blowout make it a hazardous situation, posing significant risks to the safety of both the truck driver and other motorists.
Top Causes of Truck Tire Blowouts In New York
Truck tire blowouts can happen for a variety of reasons, although certain factors are more common than others in causing these sudden and potentially dangerous events.
Overloaded Trucks
An overloaded truck is a common cause of truck tire blowouts as they exceed the weight limit specifications of its tires, causing a significant risk. Each tire is engineered and rated with a specific weight rating, indicating the maximum weight it can safely support without compromising it’s integrity. When a truck consistently surpasses this limit by carrying more cargo than the tires can handle, they are subjected to excessive heat, wear, and tear beyond their intended capacity. This overburden places immense stress on the tires, significantly increasing the likelihood of tire blowout accidents occurring.
Road Conditions & Hazards
Road hazards and conditions play a significant role in precipitating truck tire blowouts. Poorly maintained roads, with potholes, debris, and sharp objects, pose substantial risks to tire integrity. Driving over these obstacles can inflict damage on truck tires, weakening their structure and increasing the likelihood of a tire blowout. Even the seemingly harmless act of clipping a curb can have detrimental consequences on truck tires, aggravating existing vulnerabilities within the tire. Consequently, truck drivers must remain vigilant and cautious while driving on all roads as hazards can be present anywhere, as the repercussions of tire blowouts can be severe.
Lack Of Tire Maintenance
Poorly maintained truck tires and tires that are unfit for driving significantly elevate the likelihood of a truck tire blowout. Regular maintenance checks are federally mandated and important, including not only monitoring air pressure but also conducting routine inspections for:
- Alignment
- Wear
- Damage
- Other potential issues that compromise the integrity of the tires
Neglecting these aspects of tire maintenance can lead to severe consequences as worn-down tires are more susceptible to overheating, punctures, and other factors contributing to blowouts. Uneven tread wear, which often indicates alignment issues or imbalances in air pressure and suspension, amplifies the risk further. Sometimes, drivers or their companies may use mismatched tires, whether in terms of manufacturers, sizes, or uneven wear. This poses a significant hazard, especially when used in tandem with many other tires, like on 18-wheelers. Despite the red flags, these issues might not always be addressed promptly, or at all, highlighting the critical importance of proactive maintenance measures in averting potentially catastrophic tire blowouts.
How A Queens Truck Accident lawyer Can Help
A semi truck accident lawyer is a vital advocate for victims of truck accidents who have suffered injuries or property damage due to truck tire blowouts. These legal professionals possess knowledge of the legal complexities surrounding truck accidents and the devastating consequences and effects of commercial truck tire blowouts. By leveraging their legal knowledge and experience, they guide clients through the intricate legal processes, ensuring their rights are protected as well as advocating vigorously for the compensation they deserve.
From investigating the root causes of the blowout to determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies, or representing clients in court if necessary, searching for a skilled truck accident attorney near me offers invaluable support every step of the way. Moreover, they understand the nuances of New York state laws as well as federal commercial trucking regulations, which is essential for building a robust case and maximizing compensation recovery for their clients. Ultimately, enlisting the services of a dedicated truck accident lawyer in Queens provides individuals with the reassurance and resources they need to focus on recovering from the traumatic incident and pursue the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve.
