How Defective Tires Can Cause Auto Accidents

Your vehicle may get out of control because of a tire failure. This can result in a car accident with devastating injuries. About two percent of vehicle crashes as per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration occur because of vehicle malfunctions. Out of these 35% of crashes take place due to tire-related problems. Almost 15,000 car accidents occur in the United States each year because of defective tires.

Common Tire Defects that Lead to Auto Accidents in Alabama

Tread Separation

Tread separation is a common form of tire failure. It occurs when the tire separates from the treads. Tread separation generally occurs when the steel reinforcement or belts are not properly bonded with the body of the tire. This produces noticeable vibrations while driving.

Improper Inflation

Only 20% of drivers pay attention to the inflation and maintenance of their tires as per an estimate by the NHTSA. This can result in dangerous overinflation and underinflation situations. Overinflated tires are at a greater risk of blowouts while driving. The air inside the tires can heat substantially. Underinflated tires don’t provide the same control.

Weak or Old Rubber

Tires can become defective over a period of time as rubber doesn’t last forever. Tires can become damaged if the vehicle is allowed to sit without use for an extended period. UV rays take their toll on tires by drying out the sidewall and causing them to crack and weaken.

Mechanical Issues

Pre-existing defects can cause unintentional tire damage and uneven tire wear. Worn components of the suspension and steering system may cause tire damage too. This can place uneven pressure on the tires which can translate into tire damage.

Defective Materials

You should keep an eye out for substandard techniques and materials used by companies for saving money during construction. Cheaper materials have a greater likelihood of failure.

Recognizing Tire Defects

You can recognize certain signs of damage by giving your tires a visual inspection. You should make sure to have the tires professionally inspected if you notice any of the following:

• Uneven wear on the treads because of damaged, misaligned, or improperly inflated tires
• Bulges, blisters, or bubbles signal weak spots which require immediate replacement
• Cuts, cracks, and other damage to the sidewalls
• Worn out treads that can be identified by watching the tread-wear indicator bars
• Excess vibration in the car while driving may mean a misaligned, unbalanced, or bent tire or wheel

You should take a look at the other driver’s tires if you were in a car accident. You can claim damages if you can prove that the accident was because of defective tires.

Types of Accidents Following Tire Defects

Defective tires can cause different types of accidents. The consequences are worse when motorists are unaware of any problem with their tires. At least 11,000 tire-related accidents take place on average in the country as per an estimate by the NHTSA. Defective tires can explode during inflation which can cause serious injuries.

Defective tires can result in the following types of car accidents:

Swerves and Spins

Defective tires can blow out or explode unexpectedly. It may cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. The car may spin, swerve or skid as a result of the blowout. These accidents may involve multiple cars or single-vehicle crashes.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents involve a car rolling onto its side or roof. Rollover accidents have a higher fatality rate as compared to other types of car crashes as per the NHTSA. Tire failures and defects can cause dangerous rollover accidents, which may result in devastating or fatal injuries.

Head-on Collisions

Defective tires can make a vehicle run off the road into oncoming traffic. This increases the risk of a head-on collision. Such accidents lead to catastrophic injuries because of high speeds.

Prevent Accidents Due to Defective Tires

You should monitor the status and wear and tear of your tires regularly for minimizing the risk of an accident. There are several warning signs such as worn treads, bubbles and blisters, and excess vibration in the car among other things that indicate tire damage. You should act promptly to have your tires inspected and fixed by a professional.

If you were in a car accident that was the direct result of another driver’s defective tire, you are likely not responsible for the accident. You may be able to seek monetary compensation for your injuries from the other driver’s insurer. Similarly, you can hold the tire company responsible for your damages and injuries if you can prove the accident occurred because of a manufacturing defect in the tire.

Regardless of the situation, you should consider working with a trusted car accident attorney that will do everything possible to have your case heard.

Get Legal Advice from an Experienced Defective Car Tire Accident Attorney in Alabama

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an auto accident because of a defective car tire, it is time to contact the law offices of Frank M. Wilson. Our committed and tough personal injury attorneys will fight for the rightful compensation you deserve. We can assess your accident claim and negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company for maximum settlement. To request a consultation, call us at (334) 420-2931 or complete this online form.