TIRE FAILURE
Tire failure is a major industry problem. Tire manufacturers have
continued to sell tires to unsuspecting consumers which are defective
and not fit for their ordinary and intended use and do not perform in
accordance with the reasonable expectations of ordinary consumers.
Today’s tires are significantly safer that tires twenty-five years ago.
However, they still need attention. While some tire failures may have
been prevented because of driver errors some failure are the direct
results of a manufacturing defect or design defect.
The most common cause of tire failure is tread separation. When a tread
separates away from the tire the operator often experiences the
sensation of a blow out. But even if the tier remains inflated the
driver usually loses control of the vehicle.
Hot weather and high speed can contribute to tread separation. These
failures lead to violent break down and rollovers that have killed
thousands and caused terrible injuries.
This type of separation results from faulty steel-belted radial tire
technology. Because steel and rubber are used together, the two
materials may not bond properly. High speed and hot weather can
contribute to tread separation. This type of failure is usually the
product of a faulty tire design, but it also can result from tires that
are not manufactured properly.
Under inflation is also considered as the main culprit in recent tire
failure fatalities. Uneven and worn-out tires the next serious problem
and can also lead to tire failure. Uneven tires are caused by
improperly balanced tires or misaligned or broken suspensions.
Tire failures can be prevented with the proper maintenance but some
cases of tire failure are hard to detect because of manufacturing or
design flaw. To prevent injuries resulting from tire collapse be aware
of the following signs: tire vibration indicating a misalignment, tread
is very worn down indicating improper inflation, cracks in the
sidewalls, sidewall has bugles indicating weakened areas and tread is
unevenly worn out.
If you have been involved in a vehicle accident caused by tire failure
you should immediately contact a car accident lawyer and discuss your
legal rights and just compensation for the injuries sustained in the
accident. Preserve the tire and all the evidence. In any lawsuit the
tire industry will attempt to blame the failure on the operator or
improper maintenance. However, if you have serious injury or death
resulting from the tire failure your lawyer will help you pursue the
case.