Why You Need a Tire Inflation Cage to Stay Safe

Handling a tire may sound like an easy task. However, the truth of the matter is that handling a tire requires knowledge, preparation, and skill. What many people fail to realize is when a tire blows up, there is a high probability the person near it will suffer serious injuries. This is especially true for large truck tires. Alabama tire defect lawyer Rick Morrison, founder of The Morrison Law Firm, invites you to keep reading as we discuss more about why you should always use a tire inflation gate to stay safe.

What is a Tire Inflation Cage?

A tire cage is an essential piece of equipment designed to keep tire mechanics safe when inflating a tire. However, not all tires require a tire inflation cage. These cages are designed to service multi-piece and single-piece rim wheels. Generally, these wheels are used by large vehicles such as trucks, semi-trucks, tractors, trailers and other large motor vehicles.

How Tire Inflation Cages Prevent Injuries

When inflating a large tire, there is always a risk of the tire exploding. The amount of pressure generated by an exploding truck tire can be high. A tire blowout can cause severe injuries and even the wrongful death of a mechanic. For instance, a large tire inflated to 100 PSI can generate up to 50,000 pounds of pressure in a blowout.

One of the main reasons why you should always use a tire inflation cage is because most large truck tires are made out of different components that can fly out of the tire at high speeds. If a person is standing too close to an unprotected tire during inflation, he or she risks experiencing devastating injuries such as head injuries, cuts, and lacerations – which could be fatal.

OSHA Regulations for Tire Inflation

OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, sets forth the standard for servicing single- and multi-piece rim wheels. First, OSHA requires using a restraining device during the inflation process. This device allows the wheel to sit in a vertical position and prevents any component from turning into a projectile in the event of a blowout. The device has to be made out of heavy-gauged steel tubes welded to a square base. The cage’s size and composition can vary depending on the size of the tire.

The use of a clip-on chuck, an in-line valve with a regulator, and a long hose are mandatory. These components allow proper inflation while avoiding the risk of an accident. Furthermore, the device must be able to withstand the forces generated during a tire blowout. If the equipment is damaged to the point it has to be reworked or welded; it must be replaced and not re-used.

Employers must provide their employees with necessary training for performing tire inflation using a tire inflation case. This includes making sure all employees understand the procedure, know what it takes to demount and mount a tire, and proper equipment management.

Who is Liable After a Tire Blowout Accident?

In Alabama, an employee is generally barred from filing a lawsuit against a negligent employer for a work-related accident. However, this does not mean an injured employee cannot obtain compensation for his or her injuries. If your employer has more than five people working for him or her, you are likely to be covered by Alabama’s workers’ compensation program. Under this program, employees can obtain compensation for their work injuries.

While you may not be able to sue your employer, there may be other parties who may be liable for your injuries. For instance, if you suffered an injury due to a defective tire inflation cage, regulator, hose, or any other related equipment, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer with assistance from a personal injury lawyer.

This can be achieved by filing a product liability claim. This type of claim holds the liable parties accountable for injuries caused by a defective product. For instance, if the manufacturer was negligent in designing a cage or any of its components, and that defect was not corrected and caused your injuries, they may be liable for your losses. If you are successful, you can obtain compensation for losses such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Tire Blowout Lawyer Offering Free Consultations in Alabama

If you we injured due to the negligent actions of another party, Montgomery car accident lawyer Rick Morrison can help. At The Morrison Law Firm, we understand the difficulties associated with a severe injury. We know first hand how an accident can affect both the victims and their families.

You do not have to feel alone in such trying times. We have the knowledge and skill necessary to hold the liable parties accountable for your injuries. To learn more about your potential claim in a free, confidential consultation, call The Morrison Law Firm today at (334) 625-6128, or contact us online.