What Wind Speed Can Flip a Semi Truck?

Semi-Trucks are large vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when they are loaded with cargo. As a result, they need strong winds to move them, but how much wind is actually required to flip a semi-truck?

The answer is that it depends on multiple factors, including the size and weight of the truck, the surface it is driving on, and the strength of the wind. Generally speaking, trucks can withstand winds up to 70 mph without being flipped. However, it takes a lot more wind than that to cause a truck to flip over – somewhere around 90 mph or higher.

In extreme cases, where there are high winds combined with heavy rain and poor road conditions, even lower wind speeds can be enough to cause a semi-truck to flip over. For example, in 2010 in Colorado USA a tractor trailer was flipped over by wind gusts of only 55 mph due to poor visibility from heavy rain and ice on the road.

When driving in areas where high winds are common or expected, it is always important for drivers of semi-trucks to be extra careful and try to avoid driving in extreme weather conditions whenever possible. In addition, drivers should be aware of their truck’s weight and size and take extra precautions if wind speeds reach 70 mph or higher.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while semi-trucks can usually withstand winds up to 70 mph without being flipped over, it takes much higher wind speeds (90+mph) for a truck to actually be flipped over. Drivers should always exercise caution when driving in areas where high winds are common or expected and should take extra precautions if wind speeds reach 70 mph or higher.

Photo of author

James Gardner