Steer tire blew during traffic stop for 17 MPH speed violation, Tennessee troopers say

Troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) are asking drivers to slow down and maintain their equipment after a traffic stop on a speeding commercial vehicle.

On March 3, 2026, THP took to social media to make an example of a commercial vehicle driver who experienced a steer tire blowout during a traffic stop for speeding.

“A THP Motor Carrier Plus Middle Region trooper conducted a stop on a commercial motor vehicle traveling 17 MPH over the posted speed limit. Moments after the vehicle came to a stop, the steer axle tire blew out,” state troopers said.

THP used the incident to ask the trucking community for slower speeds and extra attention to their equipment:

“A steer tire failure at highway speeds can have catastrophic consequences, especially with the size and weight of a CMV. There is no doubt that this stop prevented a potentially serious crash and saved lives that day. Speed and equipment condition matter. Enforcement isn’t just about citations, it’s about protecting the motoring public and making sure everyone gets home safely. Slow down, and maintain your equipment. Safety is not optional.“

See THP’s images of the tire failure aftermath below.