BB18

Become a Better CDL Driver:

Tires

Index

Click on each topic to consult it.

1. Introduction

2. Tires

3. Summary

4. Quiz

Learning Outcomes

Once you finish this course, you will:

• Describe the key factors contributing to tire blowouts, including insufficient air pressure and worn-out tread, and demonstrate the ability to perform daily tire inspections in compliance with federal regulations.
• Measure tire tread depth and inflation pressure using appropriate tools, and recognize the importance of maintaining proper tire conditions to prevent accidents, citations, and out-of-service orders.

Introduction

Your tires are the sole point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them crucial for your safety and those around you. A sudden blowout can occur at any moment, potentially resulting in a serious accident with severe outcomes. To keep both you and your tires safe and compliant, it's essential to inspect and maintain them regularly.

Tires

Click on the button to read the information.

Tire Blowouts

Daily Tire Inspections

Post-trip Inspection

Thread Wear

Low Inflation

Regular tire inspections are mandated by federal regulations.

If you encounter any issues record the problem on a driver’s vehicle inspection report (DVIR)

To ensure compliance with regulations, keep the minimum tread depth allowed.

Maintaining low inflation can create excessive heat

Tire blowouts occur for specific reasons

Click here to listen.

Summary

As a professional driver, it's essential to keep your tires in good condition. Neglecting them can result in a citation, a fine, an out-of-service order, or even an accident. Make it a habit to check your tires daily, watch for low air pressure and insufficient tread depth. Look for any leaks or damage, and ensure that any issues are promptly fixed.

Webliography

We recommend you to take a look at these articles:

• Carrobis. (2023, May 25). Are You Ruining Your Tyres? The Shocking Truth Behind What is the Difference Between Overinflated and Underinflated Tires?

• Harris Tire. (n/d). Understanding the Causes of Tire Blowouts.

• Transport Topics. (2018, August 8). Tire Safety Starts With the Pre-Trip Inspection.

• Tyre Market. (2023, Mar 7th). What Is A Tread Wear Indicator?

You are ready for the Quiz

You’re all set for the quiz! There are a total of 10 questions. Feel free to take it multiple times, and we’ll only report your best score.

Question 01

Question 02

Question 03

Question 04

Question 05

Question 06

Question 07

Question 08

Question 09

Question 10

You have finished your course!

Low Inflation

Maintaining low inflation can create excessive heat, which may result in premature tire failure. Before you hit the road, ensure you check the inflation of each tire while they are cold. Avoid guessing or simply tapping the tires; instead, use a pressure gauge for accuracy, and make sure all valve caps are securely fastened afterward. During your routine inspections while on the road, check the tires again. Just keep in mind that if you use a gauge, the pressure will typically read 5 to 15 psi higher when the tires are hot.

Source: Carobis.

Thread Wear

To ensure compliance with regulations, it's important to know the minimum tread depth allowed. For steer tires, the tread must be at least 4/32”, while all other tires should have a minimum of 2/32”. Instead of estimating, make sure to use a gauge to measure the tread depth accurately and check multiple spots on each tires.

Source: Tyre Market.

Source: Harris Tire.

Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts occur for specific reasons, typically due to insufficient air pressure or worn-out tread. It's essential to keep an eye on these factors during your daily checks.

Post-trip Inspection

When you're conducting your inspections, be sure to look out for:

• Any ply or belt material that can be seen through a cut or along the tread or sidewall.
• Any separation in the tread or sidewall.
• Any noticeable leaks.

These issues are quite serious and should be addressed before the vehicle is taken on the road.

If you encounter any issues throughout the day or while inspecting your tires after a trip, it's important to record the problem on a driver’s vehicle inspection report (DVIR) to ensure it gets addressed before the vehicle is used again. Moreover, if you're transporting hazardous materials, make sure to inspect your tires each time you make a stop.

Source: Transport Topics.

Daily Tire Inspections

Regular tire inspections are mandated by federal regulations. It's essential to ensure that your tires are adequately inflated, have sufficient tread depth, are undamaged, and are in good condition before hitting the road.