Suing For Injuries Caused by Tire Explosions

A tire blowout can happen at any time, and the results can be fatal.

It’s important to note that a tire blowout is not the same as a flat tire. Flat tires occur because of a loss of tire pressure, whereas a tire blowout is the explosive release of the compressed air.

Blowouts result in the instant destruction of a tire. When a vehicle is traveling at high speed on a busy road, this obviously creates a very serious accident risk.

Tire explosions can happen on any type of vehicle. However, because of the weight they carry and the distances they travel, blowouts are particularly common on commercial cargo trucks. Of course, a tire explosion is much more dangerous when it happens on a big truck because they’re so much larger and heavier than other vehicles. Even a single tire blowout can cause an 18-wheeler to lose control and plow into other road users.

What Causes Tire Explosions?

Some of the biggest risk factors for tire explosions include:

• Overinflation
• Underinflation
• Aging/bald tires
• Overloading of the vehicle
• Manufacturing defects.

Many accidents involving tire explosions are preventable. Vehicle owners can lessen the risk of unexpected blowouts by inspecting and changing tires regularly, and by avoiding putting too much stress on tires by overloading the vehicle.

Liability

Determining liability in cases involving blowouts can be difficult. While drivers have a responsibility to ensure their tires are roadworthy, it’s often tricky to prove that an explosion was the result of negligence rather than mere misfortune.

In cases involving blowouts on commercial trucks, the trucking company will generally be the liable party. Trucking companies are liable for ensuring all vehicles are in proper working condition and pass all inspections before heading out on their route. All vehicles must have a maintenance schedule for automotive professionals to follow to help alleviate potential accidents. Failing to keep trucks in working order can be seen as negligence in court.

Depending on specific circumstances, manufacturers or installers may also be held liable for damages following tire explosion accidents.

If an installer installs a tire incorrectly or installs the wrong type of tire, they may be held liable for any resulting accidents. Similarly, if a retailer sells old or defective tires, or if a manufacturer distributes defective tires, they may be liable as well.

How We Win Tire Explosion Cases

Every road accident case (and, indeed, every personal injury case) hinges on evidence. When we take on a tire blowout case, we build our arguments by relying on evidence from:

• The remains of the exploded tire
• Photos and videos of the accident scene
• Eyewitness reports
• Police records
• Vehicle damage reports
• Medical records
• Recall notices.

Without an expert legal team in your corner in a situation like this, you’ll likely find it impossible to collect the evidence you need, much less present it in a way that will secure a good settlement. That’s why it’s so important to contact a competent car accident attorney as soon as possible after a collision.

Tire Maintenance Tips

There are a number of steps you can take to ensure your tires are roadworthy. These include:

• Regularly checking tire pressure: Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check your tires at least once a month and before long trips. Inflate tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, found in the vehicle's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door.
• Inspecting tires for wear and damage: Look for signs of uneven wear, cracks, bulges, or objects embedded in the tire.
• Aligning and balancing tires: Have your tires balanced and your vehicle's alignment checked if you notice uneven wear or if the vehicle pulls to one side during travel.
• Monitoring tire tread depth: Use the "penny test" to check tread depth. Place a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head upside down; if you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace the tire.
• Avoiding excessive loads: Adhere to the vehicle's maximum load rating (found in the owner’s manual) to prevent excessive pressure on tires.
• Using the right tires for the season: Consider seasonal conditions and use winter tires or all-season tires accordingly.
• Replacing tires when necessary: Don’t delay replacing tires that are worn out, damaged, or have reached the end of their useful life (usually around six years from the date of manufacture, but this can vary).
• Storing tires properly: If you're storing tires, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, oil, and grease.
• Driving carefully: Avoid habits that can cause tire damage, such as speeding, hitting curbs, and driving over potholes.
• Consulting professionals: When in doubt, have your tires inspected by a professional who can identify issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.

Get The Cochran Firm in Philadelphia in Your Corner

At The Cochran Firm, we understand what it takes to fight large corporations and insurance companies to pursue the best possible compensation for our clients. Call The Cochran Firm in Philadelphia today at 800-969-4400.