Overloaded Tires on Commercial Buses (Motorcoaches)

Operators of buses, known in the industry as motorcoaches, place their riders at risk of serious injury or death if they operate the vehicles with tires that are overloaded or are overly worn or damaged.  Also at risk are other motorists and pedestrians if the motorcoach experiences a tire failure and the driver of the motorcoach loses control of the vehicle.

The risk is increased in the summer, when the tires are operated in warm weather conditions, increasing the risk of overheating and tire failure.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has warned motorcoach operators of the need to consider maximum tire load carrying capacity and tire speed rating, and allow an adequate tire pressure safety margin when carrying maximum passenger and luggage loads.  The failure to take appropriate action can lead to the assessment of penalties against the operator.  

The nature of the problem is discussed in more detail in this motorcoach tire safety bulletin issued by the FMCSA.