Freight Pulse & Law Update: NHTSA Opens the First Tire-Standard Overhaul in 20 Years as Great Dane and Wabash Trailer Recalls Land (Nov. 2, 2026)

Nothing changes in roadside inspections today, but NHTSA has opened the first major review of federal tire-safety standards in more than 20 years. The process could shape what future commercial tires must prove.

What is NHTSA considering?

The Oct. 27 Federal Register notice proposes a negotiated rulemaking committee to review:

• Tire-strength (plunger energy), bead-unseating and tire-endurance tests

• Non-pneumatic tires and updated sidewall markings

ATA’s Robert Braswell called legacy tests “vestigial” for modern steel-belted radials. ATA safety director Kevin Grove said airless truck tires need more performance data and roadside-inspection work before adoption. NHTSA plans an 18-member committee; comments and membership nominations are due Nov. 27 in docket NHTSA-2026-1717. Fleets should route technical input through their associations while members are selected.

Which trailer recalls need attention?

Great Dane recall 26V708 covers 6,810 model-year 2026–27 Champion and Everest trailers; a separate recall, 26E074, covers nearly 1,000 landing-gear assemblies. Potential K-brace weld failures could cause landing gear to collapse. Dealer inspections and replacements are free; owner notices are expected Dec. 22. Wabash recall 26V683 covers 475 model-year 2027 vans with incorrect wheel-bearing lubricant that could seize wheel ends; notices are expected Nov. 25.

CVSA Brake Safety Week ran Aug. 23–29, 2026, focusing on brake drums and rotors. A separate but timely reminder to keep equipment inspections current.

What should I-95 fleets plan for?

On the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the two right northbound lanes remain closed around the clock through Nov. 24 as crews replace 46 joints. Trucks, buses and oversized vehicles must use the two open left lanes; the southbound contra-flow bypass is prohibited to commercial vehicles. Check the DRBA project update before dispatch.

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