On the afternoon of March 10th, a fully loaded dump truck suddenly experienced a truck tires blowout, causing it to veer off course and overturn. Fortunately, everyone in the vehicle properly used seat belts, and there were no injuries.
Tire blowouts are a leading cause of truck accidents, especially as temperatures rise and the peak season for blowouts approaches. So, how can truck drivers reduce the risk of blowouts and ensure safe driving in their daily operations?
What should you do after a truck tires blowout?
In various truck tires blowout accidents, drivers often respond improperly due to panic, not knowing the correct safety procedures. Subconscious actions like jerking the steering wheel or slamming on the brakes may lead to loss of control or rollovers.
If a truck tire blows out while driving, it’s crucial to stay calm and remember the correct procedures. If the steer tire blows out, firmly grip the steering wheel to control the vehicle’s direction, release the accelerator, but avoid braking. Once the vehicle’s direction stabilizes, gently apply the brakes, observe the road conditions, activate hazard lights, and pull over to the side of the road.
If a trailer tire blows out, the initial step is also to grip the steering wheel firmly to maintain control and prevent further collisions. Apply slight braking and pull over to the side of the road, placing warning triangles behind the vehicle.
After an accident on a highway, remember the “9-word rule”: “Move the vehicle aside, evacuate people, and report the incident immediately,” as high speeds on highways can quickly lead to secondary accidents.
In the event of a tire blowout, the most important action is to grip the steering wheel firmly. Many drivers may lose control because of the shock of the blowout, leading to their hands slipping from the wheel. This emphasizes the need to always maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and stay vigilant while driving. Safety is not a one-time effort; it requires constant attention.
Why do tire blowouts happen?
How can we prevent them in our daily routines?
To reduce the probability of tire blowout accidents, we first need to understand the main causes of blowouts in daily operations:
1、Poor tire quality:
In order to save costs, many drivers may opt for low-quality tires or retreaded tires, or they may continue using truck wheels and tires that have been patched multiple times, all of which can increase the likelihood of blowouts over time. Solution: When purchasing tires, it’s best to choose quality products from reputable sources. Additionally, if there are cracks or other issues with the tires, it’s important to address them promptly at reliable repair shops instead of attempting DIY fixes. If a tire has been patched multiple times and the steel belts are damaged, it’s advisable to replace it promptly rather than continuing to use it.
2、Excessive wear or foreign objects:
Uneven loading or improper driving maneuvers, such as sudden braking or acceleration, can lead to excessive wear on certain tires. Additionally, sharp objects like nails or stones can become lodged in the tire tread, increasing the risk of blowouts. Solution: Regularly inspect tires for signs of wear, bulges, or damage. If there are any issues, such as bulges on the sidewall indicating internal belt damage, the tire should be replaced promptly. Proper wheel alignment should also be maintained, and tires should be rotated to ensure even wear. Before each trip, check tires for foreign objects and address any issues promptly. When encountering bumps or potholes, reduce speed to minimize tire damage.
3、Incorrect tire pressure:
Both overinflated and underinflated tires can increase the risk of blowouts. Overinflated tires reduce traction and shock absorption, while underinflated tires increase flexing and heat buildup, leading to potential tire failure. Solution: Regularly check tire pressure, preferably when tires are at ambient temperature. Maintain tires at the recommended pressure specified in the vehicle manual, including spare tires.
Prepare these tools to calmly reduce risks.
With the development of commercial vehicle technology, tire safety configurations have been further strengthened in recent years. The following three tools can effectively reduce the risk of tire blowouts, and many mid-to-high-end models offer them as optional factory-installed features. When purchasing a vehicle, you can consult the dealer for more details to enhance safety.
1、Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
As mentioned earlier, both overinflated and underinflated tires pose risks of blowouts. A semi truck tires pressure monitoring system can constantly monitor tire pressure, temperature, and other conditions. It provides early warnings for issues such as high or low tire pressure, leaks, or high temperatures, enabling drivers to detect danger signals promptly and take necessary actions to eliminate the risk of blowouts. In addition to being factory-installed, drivers can also opt for aftermarket installation.
2、Tire Blowout Emergency Device:
While a tire pressure monitoring system is an active safety feature, a tire blowout emergency device serves as a passive protection mechanism. It acts as a tire anti-detachment device, providing support to prevent the tire from disengaging from the rim or slipping on the ground when a blowout occurs. This helps drivers maintain better control of the vehicle’s direction, avoiding collisions or veering off course.
3、Central Truck Tyres Inflation System:
While a tire pressure monitoring system can monitor tire conditions, manual adjustment of tire pressure is required if any issues are detected. A central tire inflation system combines tire pressure monitoring and adjustment functions. It automatically adjusts tire pressure based on driving conditions and ambient temperature, ensuring that tires operate optimally to reduce the risk of blowouts. It can also extend tire lifespan and decrease fuel consumption.
Editor’s Note:
Tires are critical components of vehicles, playing a crucial role in their operation. Tire blowouts can lead to severe accidents, particularly for trucks. In daily operations, drivers should meticulously inspect tires, practice proactive driving, and monitor tire usage to enhance safety. We hope everyone can earn a living safely.
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