A crash on I-44 east of Halltown claimed the life of a 26-year-old truck driver and seriously injured an 18-year-old passenger. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the westbound semi-truck experienced a tire defect, which caused the driver to overcorrect. The vehicle then overturned in the median, resulting in a total loss of the tractor and a breach in the attached wastewater tanker.
When I hear about a crash involving a tire failure like this, I immediately think about the possibility of a manufacturing defect or maintenance oversight. In my experience, these cases often hinge on subtle issues that don’t become obvious until the truck’s equipment is carefully examined.
Could a Tire Defect Have Played a Role?
The crash report notes that the semi-truck suffered a tire defect just before the driver lost control. Investigators will need to determine whether the failure was due to a defect in the tire’s design or production. Blowouts caused by tread separation or sidewall failure may indicate a deeper issue with the way the tire was manufactured. If the tire failed under normal operating conditions, the manufacturer could bear responsibility.
Was the Tire Properly Maintained?
In addition to manufacturing concerns, maintenance history is also critical. Commercial tires must be regularly inspected for wear, inflation, and signs of damage. Investigators should review maintenance logs and check for signs of underinflation, punctures, or dry rot. If the trucking company failed to perform routine maintenance, that could have contributed to the failure.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
A thorough investigation should involve preserving the failed tire for expert inspection. Investigators will want to examine the tire’s manufacturing date, serial number, and tread condition. The truck’s maintenance records, the carrier’s inspection logs, and any service history involving the tire must also be reviewed. Additionally, onboard data from the truck’s ECM could provide information about vehicle speed, steering, and braking at the time of the crash.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Important
Crashes involving potential mechanical or product failures can be complex, but that’s exactly why a full investigation is so important. In my experience with truck accidents, key details—like a faulty tire or missed inspection—often emerge only after a careful review. Understanding what went wrong is a critical step in providing answers to those affected.