Tires play a critical role in vehicle safety. When they are defective, the risk of accidents increases significantly. A manufacturing flaw, poor design, or failure in production can make a tire unsafe for use. When a defective tire leads to an accident, an experienced defective tires lawyer can help. By understanding the different types of accidents that may be caused by defective tires, you can better understand your case and if you may have a defective tires claim.
- Tread Separation Leads to Loss of Control
Tread separation occurs when the outer layer of a tire detaches from the inner structure. This can happen suddenly, causing a driver to lose control, especially at high speeds. When a tire separates, the vehicle may swerve, making it difficult to correct the direction. Accidents involving tread separation are common on highways, where high speeds make recovery more difficult and injuries and losses caused by accidents can be greater.
- Blowouts Cause Sudden Instability
A blowout happens when a tire rapidly loses air pressure, often due to a defect in the sidewall or structure. This can cause a vehicle to veer off course, making it hard to control. Blowouts are especially dangerous for larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, due to their higher center of gravity. Drivers who experience a blowout may struggle to keep the vehicle on the road.
- Poor Manufacturing Can Lead to Uneven Wear
Some tires wear out faster than expected due to poor manufacturing or defective materials. Uneven wear can cause reduced traction, longer stopping distances, and an increased risk of hydroplaning. Drivers may not notice the problem until the vehicle becomes difficult to handle in wet or slippery conditions, creating a dangerous potential for accidents.
- Sidewall Defects Increase the Risk of a Tire Failure
A weak sidewall can cause a tire to bulge or crack, making it more likely to fail under normal driving conditions. Sidewall defects can lead to air leaks, sudden deflation, or complete tire failure. Experienced lawyers such as our colleagues at Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC always recommend that drivers who notice visible deformities on their tires should have them inspected immediately.
- Defective Valve Stems Can Lead to Slow Air Loss
Valve stems help maintain proper tire pressure. If they are defective, air can slowly escape, causing the tire to underinflate. Low tire pressure affects braking, handling, and fuel efficiency. Many drivers do not realize their tires are losing air until they experience a handling issue or an unexpected flat.
- Poor Adhesion Can Cause Tires to Come Apart
The materials used in tire manufacturing must bond correctly to keep the tire intact. If the rubber and adhesives are defective, the layers may separate over time. This weakens the tire’s structure, making it more likely to fail. Tire separation can happen gradually or all at once, creating a serious hazard on the road.
- Retreaded Tires May Fail if Not Properly Made
Retreaded tires are often used on commercial vehicles, but if they are made with defective materials or improper techniques, they can fail quickly. A poorly constructed retread may not adhere properly, leading to tread separation or blowouts. This is particularly dangerous for heavy trucks, where tire failure can lead to multi-vehicle accidents.
Seeking Legal Help After An Accident
Accidents caused by defective tires can lead to serious injuries and financial losses. If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to see a doctor for medical treatment as soon as possible. Additionally, legal options may be available for those affected by a tire failure. A lawyer familiar with defective product claims can help assess the situation and determine the next steps.