NAVAJO COUNTY, ARIZONA — Arizona Department of Public Safety troopers stopped a semi truck driving on its rims on Interstate 40, ten miles east of Winslow, after the vehicle lost both front tires and wheels due to a mechanical failure at the front axle hub.
The driver told the trooper he was heading to Winslow to find a repair shop. The front axle hub failure had already stripped both tires and wheels from the vehicle. As the driver pressed on, the rear axle tires absorbed the extra load and blew out as well.
AZDPS used the stop to issue a direct warning to the trucking community about the dangers of continuing to drive on damaged tires or rims.
Photo credit: AZDPS Highway Patrol
“Something wrong with your tires? Slow down, turn on your hazards, and pull over off the highway or off to a shoulder if an exit isn’t available,” AZDPS said. “It is extremely dangerous to drive longer than necessary on busted tires or rims because it can cause serious damage to your vehicle, gouge the road, kick up rocks into other vehicles, or throw sparks that could start a fire. Be smart and stay alert to any changes with your vehicle.”
No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
📸 Image(s) used under fair use for news reporting.
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