Examining the Semi Crash on I-55 in Mississippi County, AR

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A crash occurred Tuesday morning on I-55 in Mississippi County when a semi-truck allegedly experienced a tire blowout. Authorities reported that the truck, driven by 38-year-old Mohanned Al-Zirij of Sterling Heights, Michigan, allegedly veered off the road around 11:30 a.m. The vehicle struck a guardrail and a concrete bridge before catching fire. Al-Zirij died at the scene.

When a tire blowout is alleged as the initial trigger for a crash, investigators must consider whether the failure stemmed from poor maintenance, road hazards, or a potential manufacturing defect. Tire failures on heavy commercial vehicles carry especially high risks given the weight and speed involved, and pinpointing the cause is critical in determining accountability.

Investigating Possible Tire Defects

A sudden tire failure may point to issues beyond wear and tear. Investigators will need to assess whether the tire itself contained a structural weakness, such as tread separation or sidewall defects. Manufacturers may bear responsibility if the tire was defective when sold, and records of similar failures involving the same model could shed light on whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern.

Mechanical and Fire-Related Considerations

The rollover and subsequent fire also raise questions about the truck’s design and safety systems. Investigators may examine whether fuel lines, tanks, or electrical wiring contributed to the fire spreading rapidly. Commercial vehicles must meet federal standards for crashworthiness, but severe impacts can expose vulnerabilities that need to be documented.

Evidence That Should Be Collected

To determine the role of a potential defect, investigators will likely review the truck’s maintenance history, tire manufacturing records, and any recall notices related to the tire model. The Engine Control Module (ECM) can provide critical details on the truck’s speed and handling immediately before the blowout. Physical evidence, such as the condition of the failed tire and burn patterns on the wreckage, will also be essential in reconstructing the sequence of events.

Why a Full Investigation Is Important

When a crash results in loss of life, it is important to establish whether the tire blowout was caused by a preventable defect or another factor. A thorough investigation will provide answers about what happened and why.