Defective Tires

Akron Lawyer for Defective Car Tires

When a Tire Blowout Leads to Peril

Car accidents are usually the result of distracted driving, speeding or other types of careless or reckless behavior. However, not all accidents are the result of driver negligence. In some instances, accidents occur as a result of an automotive defect. When your vehicle (or a component) malfunctions on the road, it doesn’t matter how skilled or attentive a driver you are – the consequences can be severe and life-altering.

One critical aspect of a vehicle’s safety is its tires. Defective car tires can pose serious risks to drivers and passengers alike. A tire blowout, for example, can lead to a loss of control, rollovers and potentially life-threatening accidents.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to a defective car tire, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.

Causes of Tire Failure

Tire failures can occur for various reasons, and not all failures are the result of defects. Some common causes of tire failure include:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, tires naturally wear out due to road friction, weather conditions and general usage. This wear can lead to reduced tread depth, making the tire more susceptible to blowouts.
• Underinflation/Overinflation: Incorrect tire pressure can compromise the tire’s integrity, leading to decreased handling, reduced traction and even blowouts.
• Potholes and Road Debris: Impacting a pothole or sharp road debris can cause sudden damage to a tire, leading to immediate deflation or structural damage.
• Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, tires may have inherent defects from the manufacturing process, such as weak sidewalls, faulty adhesives or subpar materials.
• Design Flaws: Poorly designed tires may not be able to handle specific driving conditions, leading to unexpected failures.

Consequences of Tire Failures on the Road

A tire failure while driving can have serious consequences, potentially leading to:

• Loss of Control: A sudden tire blowout or failure can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to accidents, rollovers or collisions with other vehicles.
• Rollovers: Uneven tire pressure or tread wear can increase the risk of rollovers, which can be particularly dangerous for occupants.
• Collisions: Tire failures can result in loss of braking or steering ability, causing collisions with other vehicles, obstacles or pedestrians.
• Injuries: Occupants of the vehicle and others involved in the accident may sustain a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe head, neck and spinal injuries.
• Fatalities: In the worst cases, tire failures can lead to fatal accidents, impacting families and communities.

Defective Verus Non-Defective Tire Failures

Not all tire failures are the result of defects. Sometimes, factors like improper maintenance, excessive wear or road hazards contribute to tire failures. However, when the cause of a tire failure isn’t immediately apparent, it’s worth considering the possibility of a defect.

If you suspect that a defective tire played a role in your accident, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial. They can conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether a defect was responsible for the tire failure and subsequent accident.

The Role of an Experienced Defective Product Lawyer

Proving a defective car tire caused your crash requires a deep understanding of the law, tire technology and industry standards. An experienced lawyer can provide several benefits:

Investigation: Lawyers have the resources to investigate the tire failure thoroughly. They can analyze tire remnants, review manufacturing records and consult experts to establish whether a defect was present.

Liability Determination: Proving liability is essential. A skilled lawyer can identify responsible parties, which could include manufacturers, distributors, retailers or even repair shops that improperly installed or maintained the tires.

Evidence Collection: Lawyers know how to collect and preserve evidence, including vehicle data, surveillance footage, witness statements and expert testimony.

Negotiation: Many tire defect cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies or manufacturers. Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can work to secure fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses and other damages.

Litigation: If negotiations fail, lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. They will present compelling evidence, expert opinions and legal arguments to prove your case.