Truck Tire Blowouts in Baltimore: Why Do They Happen and Who’s to Blame?
Few things are more terrifying on the highway than hearing the bang of a truck tire blowout. In a split second, that massive rig can swerve out of control, scattering debris and endangering everyone nearby. For drivers in Baltimore, where interstates like I-95, I-70, and I-695 see constant freight traffic, these accidents are far too common and can be catastrophic for motorists nearby.
If you or someone you love was hurt due to a truck accident in Baltimore caused by a tire blowout, contact our experienced Maryland truck accident lawyers. We explain why blowouts happen and who can be held accountable in an injury claim.
Why Truck Tire Blowouts Happen
Semi-trucks and other big rigs can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Tire blowouts are always dangerous, but when they happen to a large truck, the consequences for motorists nearby can be devastating.
Tire blowout-related truck accidents in Baltimore typically don’t happen by chance. Most are preventable, but for the negligence of others involved. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), they are among the leading contributing factors in crashes. Common causes include:
- Overloaded trucks put excessive pressure on tires, increasing the risk of overheating or bursting.
- Failure to provide routine tire maintenance, such as checking air pressure and tread depth.
- Defective tires that were previously recalled and worn tires that are past the manufacturer’s life limits.
- Road hazards, like potholes, debris, or uneven pavement, can damage the sidewall.
- High heat or friction, particularly in summer or when tires are under-inflated.
- Negligent inspections occur when trucking companies rush drivers back on the road without proper maintenance.
Between the weight of most rigs and the speed at which they travel on Baltimore highways and interstates, even a single blowout can lead to jackknife crashes, rollovers, and multi-vehicle pileups.
Who’s Liable and How to Protect Yourself After a Blowout-Related Truck Accident in Baltimore
Under Maryland Law, there are strict regulations regarding truck maintenance and safety, including proper tire upkeep and inspection. When a blowout-related truck accident in Baltimore happens, multiple parties may share responsibility. This includes:
- Truck drivers, for skipping required pre-trip tire inspections.
- Trucking companies, for pushing unrealistic delivery schedules and ignoring maintenance reports.
- Maintenance contractors who failed to identify or repair visible defects.
- Tire manufacturers, if a defective tire design or material flaw caused the blowout.
- Cargo loaders, if overloaded or imbalanced loads put excessive stress on tires.
If you are injured in this type of crash, get prompt medical care and speak with our experienced Maryland truck accident lawyers before making statements to the truck company or insurers.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Experienced Maryland Truck Accident Lawyers Today
Truck tire blowouts can trigger potentially catastrophic truck accidents in Baltimore. To determine who is responsible and get the total compensation you need to recover, contact Maryland Injury Lawyers.
Our experienced Baltimore truck accident lawyers can investigate, collect evidence to support a claim, and hold negligent parties accountable. For professional legal representation, schedule a consultation today.
Sources:
fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/people-table-29-drivers-large-trucks-fatal-crashes-driver-related-0
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gtr§ion=22-405.2&enactments=False&archived=False
