When a commercial vehicle jackknifes while on a West Virginia road, it’s not uncommon to cite driver error or road conditions as the cause of the accident. However, in most cases, this type of wreck can be attributed to improperly inflated tires. Let’s take a closer look at how tire pressure could result in a big rig crash.
Underinflated tires offer substandard traction on wet roads
On a wet road, an underinflated tire does a poor job of channeling water away from the vehicle. Therefore, the tire will be floating on a pool of liquid as opposed to the surface of the road itself. This lack of contact with the road will make it harder to generate the friction needed to allow the vehicle to come to a safe stop.
It’s also worth mentioning that underinflated tires are at risk of blowing out when driving on dry roads because they actually grip the road too well. The excess heat generated while driving at highway speeds can tear the tire apart.
Overinflated tires are dangerous as well
An overinflated tire can also be dangerous because it may also be at risk of blowing out while driving at high rates of speed. Furthermore, too much air pressure could cause structural damage because the tire won’t be able to bend or flex like it should. If a tire isn’t able to properly react to various road surfaces, a driver is at an increased risk of causing a motor vehicle accident.
Generally speaking, failing to maintain a vehicle is seen as a violation of a driver’s duty of care to others. If you are involved in an accident caused by a negligent motorist, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages.
