Tire Examination After Motor Vehicle Collisions (From Traffic Collision Investigation, Ninth Edition, P 367-413, 2001, Kenneth S. Baker, -- See NCJ-197110)

• NCJ Number: 197118
• Author(s): Calvin P. McClain Jr.; Michael A. DiTallo
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 47 pages
• Sale Source: Northwestern University Ctr for Public Safety
• Publication Format: Book (Hardbound)
• Publication Type: Instructional Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter describes the role that tires play in the investigation of a motor vehicle collision and the knowledge that is necessary to complete the investigation.

Abstract

This chapter discusses tire construction basics, including tire terminology and components such as zones of a tire, tire component terminology, radial tire, bias tire, bias-belted tire construction, and tire construction for the future. The topic of labeling and markings on tires includes a discussion of categories of tire use; an overview of sidewall markings; tire brand and name of tire line; number of plies and ply material; tire size information; DOT tire identification number; and pressure, load, and speed information. The section on tire and wheel assemblies includes information on wheels and rims, flaps, valves, air pressure warning system sensors, and wheel balance weights. The subject of at-scene tire investigation includes routine inspection, further investigation, debris trail, removal of tire and wheel from the scene, and photography. A discussion of tire and wheel examination covers inspection equipment such as lighting, tire mounting machine, tire spreader, videographic/photographic equipment, and various hand tools needed; and basic examination methodology. Abnormal tire conditions, abnormal wheel conditions, indications from tire and wheel-related evidence, conclusions, and records and reports are also discussed. A list of reference sources is included at the end of the chapter.