Despite advances in tire construction technology, tire blowout accidents still happen far too often. Tire blowout accidents can be caused by something as simple as low air pressure or by something as complex as design or manufacturing defects. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a tire blowout accident it is important to investigate the cause of the blowout to ensure that the responsible parties are properly held accountable. As tires and tire pieces are often dispersed and discarded after an accident, prompt and thorough investigation of all of the evidence can be crucial to a full and fair recovery of you damages.
Trucks and tractor trailers are the most common culprits of tire blowouts and tire blowout accidents. Most drivers have seen, and often swerved to avoid, the scattered pieces and fragments of blown-out tires on the highway. A blowout occurs when a flat tire is so severely damaged that it immediately loses all air pressure. At the wrong time and at high enough speeds, a tire blowout can cause a driver to lose control and crash, sometimes resulting in a chain reaction collision involving multiple vehicles and drivers. Catastrophic and fatal big rig truck accidents often begin with a major tire blowout.
As experienced car accident attorneys, we know the importance of examining and maintaining your vehicle's tires in proper and safe condition. Daily safety checks and proper tire inflation are simple and effective practices to improve safe travel for you and your family. However, despite your best efforts tire blowouts can still occur as a result of large potholes, unexpected punctures and cuts that cause rapid air loss, and tire overloads from excessive weight or fast sharp turning.
In short, tire blowouts can happen at any time. Drivers often react poorly to the loud explosion of their tire and the immediate pull on the steering wheel. If the drivers jerk their wheel or slam on their brakes, it can become very easy to lose control of their vehicles. It is usually better to reduce your car's momentum gradually rather than react suddenly.
It is also important to drive a safe distance behind the car or truck ahead of you so as to have ample opportunity to see foreign objects in the road, such as old tire treads, many which are quite large and dangerous. Careful driving and proper planning will give you a better chance to survive a blown tire without an injury or wrongful death car accident.
Contact an Experienced Injury Attorney
If you've been injured in a tire blowout car accident then call us now for a free consultation. We know how the insurance companies work, and we know how to pursue your case in and out of court, so let our knowledge help you in your time of need.