The trucking industry helps ensure you have access to everything from home goods and the latest technology to groceries. However, sharing Minnesota roads with tractor-trailers can have devastating consequences. If the driver loses control of the vehicle due to a tire blowout and causes a collision, you might suffer catastrophic injuries.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Administration, more than 4,000 fatal crashes in 2017 involved big trucks.
Reasons for a tire blowout
A blowout occurs when a tire suddenly ruptures or bursts, which often happens at high speeds. The truck driver often loses control of the truck and collides with other vehicles nearby. Tire sidewall blowouts typically occur for one of the following reasons:
- Age
- Damage
- Manufacturing defects
- Overload
- Tire wear
- Under inflation
Flat tires often happen when tires lose air as a result of a puncture and gradually lose air, making it more likely the driver can come to a controlled stop. Blowouts affect the structural integrity of the tire unexpectedly and with force.
Parties responsible for a tire blowout
Several parties may have responsibility for your collision with a tractor-trailer. Truck driver negligence can occur if he ran over debris in the roadway, damaged the tires, and caused a blowout.
Commercial drivers must inspect the vehicle before they begin a route. Failing to do so and missing or ignoring a balding tire during the inspection may result in a negligence claim. Even if the driver was negligent, the trucking company may have vicarious liability for their employee’s actions.
However, the trucking company may have direct liability in various situations, too. If they do not maintain the truck as required, hire drivers with a history of unsafe driving or do not perform background checks, it may be liable.
Tire manufacturers, government entities charged with road maintenance and other drivers’ behavior may result in a claim against any of these parties. If you suffered catastrophic injuries in a big truck collision, understanding your options is essential for protecting your rights and receiving compensation for damages.