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Charleston Injury Lawyers / Blog / Truck Accidents / Can a Semi-Truck Explode in South Carolina?

Can a Semi-Truck Explode in South Carolina?

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One of the worst possible things that can happen on a South Carolina highway is an exploding semi-truck. Although these incidents are rare, they can happen – and they may cause numerous deaths and injuries. If you’re concerned about the possibility of an explosion on the highway, you might be wondering how this might occur. What makes a semi-truck more prone to exploding than other vehicles? Can a semi-truck accident lawyer in Charleston help after an explosion?

Police Respond to Bomb Threat Involving Semi-Truck in Greenville 

In January of 2025, police in Greenville revealed that there had been a bomb threat involving a semi-truck on I-85. Authorities stated that they became concerned about a suspicious package on the highway, and they had to shut down the area for hours while they swept the semi-truck for potential explosives. The SWAT and Bomb teams arrived to assist State Transport Police, and authorities say that the bomb threat was uttered during a routine traffic stop. Fortunately, there was no explosion.

What Might Make a Semi-Truck Explode?

 Compared to intentional bombings, semi-trucks are far more likely to explode for accidental reasons. A typical semi-truck carries a large gas tank, and it may also carry flammable or explosive cargo in its trailer. This cargo might include liquid fuel, military ammunition, or even fertilizer.

Even without hazardous cargo, a semi-truck can easily explode with just a few mechanical issues. For example, some kind of leak may cause flammable fluids to become exposed. If the semi-truck’s brakes are faulty, this could cause sparks to fly into the air. The combination of these two mechanical issues could trigger a serious explosion – especially if the semi-truck is carrying a full tank of gas.

Perhaps the worst semi-truck explosions involve fuel tanker trucks. These vehicles carry large tanks of fuel, and the consequences of a crash can be truly devastating. Although these crashes are rare, many have made headlines over the years.

Potential Injuries After a Semi-Truck Explosion 

Victims may suffer various injuries in explosions. Many of these injuries are disfiguring in nature, such as amputations, lacerations, and burns. Disfigurement is a separate, non-economic damage in South Carolina – which means you can pursue additional compensation in a lawsuit.

Other psychological issues might include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The memory of these explosions could cause lasting nightmares, flashbacks, depression, and many other issues that should lead to additional compensation.

Can a South Carolina Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Help? 

If a highway explosion has injured you or someone you love, you may want to contact an experienced personal injury attorney in South Carolina. Choose a lawyer who has experience with semi-truck accidents. These explosions can cause severe burns, amputations, and death. You have the right to consider your legal options in the aftermath of a fiery crash, and you may be able to hold trucking companies accountable. To learn more, contact Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC today.

Sources:

 walb.com/2025/01/03/bomb-threat-shuts-down-lanes-i-85-greenville-sc-suspect-arrested/

wistv.com/2024/07/05/semi-truck-catches-fire-causes-traffic-jam-i-77/

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