Ask X3What does 49 CFR 397.17 (Tires) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 397.17 requires drivers to examine each tire on a motor vehicle at the beginning of each trip and each time the vehicle is parked, and to take action if a tire is found to be flat, leaking, improperly inflated, or overheated.
The rule says
"A driver must examine each tire on a motor vehicle at the beginning of each trip and each time the vehicle is parked." (49 CFR 397.17(a))
If, as the result of an examination pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, or otherwise, a tire is found to be flat, leaking, or improperly inflated, the driver must cause the tire to be repaired, replaced, or properly inflated before the vehicle is driven — 49 CFR 397.17(b).
"If, as the result of an examination pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, or otherwise, a tire is found to be overheated, the driver shall immediately cause the overheated tire to be removed and placed at a safe distance from the vehicle." (49 CFR 397.17(c))
In plain English
This rule is about safety, making sure drivers check their tires regularly to prevent accidents. If a driver finds a problem with a tire, they must fix it before driving. This includes checking for proper inflation, and removing overheated tires. The rule also allows a driver to drive to the nearest safe place to fix a tire, but not to continue driving with a bad tire.
What to do
- Check tires at the start of each trip and each time the vehicle is parked
- Fix or replace tires that are flat, leaking, or improperly inflated
- Remove overheated tires and place them at a safe distance from the vehicle
- Drive to the nearest safe place to fix a tire if necessary