Tractor-trailer tire flies loose, smashes car
CBC News
Posted: Aug 24, 2012 6:56 AM NT
Last Updated: Aug 24, 2012 10:12 AM NT
This car was hit by a tire that flew off a tractor-trailer truck. (Photo courtesy RCMP)
The driver of a tractor-trailer truck is facing serious charges after a tire, complete with rim, flew off his vehicle on the Trans-Canada highway on Thursday, striking and smashing a car headed in the opposite direction.
The incident happened at about 11 a.m. just west of Norris Arm South. Police said the flat-bed tractor-trailer was heading east when one of its tires came loose and bounced into oncoming traffic.
RCMP officials said one car swerved to avoid it, but the large tire slammed into a second car, demolishing the front end, hood and windshield of the vehicle.
The driver managed to pull off the road, and both people in the car escaped with minor injuries.
The truck driver has been charged with failing to maintain a proper log book or complete a pre-trip inspection, and he has been suspended from driving for 72 hours under the Highway Traffic Act.
"These charges are serious," said RCMP Sgt. Marc Coulombe.
"Those pre-trip inspections and log books are there for a reason. And that's to make sure compliance with the drivers, to ensure that they are following the laws. And it's not for their own safety but it's for the safety of the other motoring public."
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