I was hurt in a car accident due to tire failure. Who’s responsible for my injuries?

When you’re traveling in a vehicle that weighs more than two tons and the only contact with the road consists of four small patches of rubber, your tires matter. Worn, defective, or improperly-installed tires can cause a serious collision.

These accidents can lead to devastating injuries and even death, particularly when they occur at highway speeds.

According to a study sponsored by The Safety Institute, there were 596 tire-related fatalities during 2014. While accident victims are entitled to receive compensation for their injuries, determining the cause of tire failure can be a challenge.

Tire Failure Causes

Multiple factors can contribute to tire failure, including:

• Lack of proper maintenance. Failure to properly maintain tires can lead to blowouts that result in collisions. Low air pressure may be a culprit, and neglecting to check and replace bald tires can also lead to serious accidents.
• Mechanic errors. If a mechanic fails to recommend replacement of worn tires, he could be liable for a collision caused by tire failure. Similarly, if he installs the wrong type of tire, or if he installs them incorrectly, he may be responsible for the resulting accident.
• Defective tires. Improperly-manufactured tires may experience tread separation, whereby the tread separates from the body of the tire. This typically happens when the vehicle is traveling at highway speeds, although it can also occur at lower speeds. Tire manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are durable and safe, and they may be held liable for accidents stemming from these failures.

Receiving Compensation

If you were injured in an accident due to defective or improperly-maintained tires, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. You need an attorney to investigate, preserve evidence, identify the parties responsible for the tire failure, and pursue the recovery you deserve.

To discuss your claim, contact the law offices of Steve M. Lee, P.C., by using the form on this page.