How Common Are Semi Truck Fires?

Semi truck fires are not as common as many might think, but they are unfortunately still a serious problem. The good news is that advances in technology have made them much less frequent than in the past. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), semi truck fires accounted for only 0.2% of all highway vehicle fires in 2019, which was down from 0.3% in 2018.

But while this is a positive trend, it’s important to remember that any fire involving a semi truck can be extremely dangerous and destructive. Semi trucks typically carry highly flammable materials such as petroleum and other hazardous liquids, so even small fires can quickly become large ones if not properly contained.

The most common cause of semi truck fires is mechanical problems or engine failure. Many of these problems can be prevented with regular maintenance and inspections, but it’s also important to be aware of some of the other potential causes such as electrical faults, fuel leaks, and overheating brakes.

Other potential causes include driver error or negligence — for example leaving a vehicle running unattended — and arson or other criminal activity. It’s important to note that these types of incidents are very rare, so the risk of an intentional act leading to a fire is small.

Conclusion

Overall, semi truck fires are relatively uncommon compared to other types of highway vehicle fires. But they remain a serious threat due to the high risk associated with them when they do occur. Companies should ensure their vehicles receive regular maintenance and inspections and drivers should practice safe driving habits in order to minimize the risk of semi truck fires.

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Stephen Dunn