Many drivers take them for granted, but tires are one of a vehicle's most essential components, providing stability, traction, and control. Unfortunately, defective tires may suffer from sudden blowouts, tread separation, or weak spots, making it nearly impossible for drivers to maintain control. And, when tires fail without warning, it often leads to catastrophic accidents. On busy Prince George's County highways, even a minor tire malfunction can result in severe accidents, putting the lives of everyone on the road at risk.
From manufacturing flaws to improper design, tire defects can arise for various reasons. If you've been injured in an accident caused by faulty tires, taking action and holding the responsible parties accountable is crucial. Defective tires often go unnoticed until disaster strikes; the consequences can be life-altering. The Prince George’s car accident attorneys at Foran & Foran will hold the manufacturers responsible and fight for the compensation you need to recover. Contact us today to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.
Common Tire Defects That Lead to AccidentsTire defects can take many forms, each presenting unique risks to drivers. Understanding these common defects is key to determining liability and pursuing compensation for accident-related injuries.
Tread Separation
One of the most dangerous tire defects is tread separation. This occurs when the outer tread of the tire detaches from the inner layers, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Tread separation is often the result of poor bonding during the manufacturing process. This defect can cause a car to swerve at high speeds, leading to rollovers or head-on collisions.
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts happen when a tire suddenly bursts, often due to defects in the tire's sidewall or internal structure. Blowouts can cause immediate loss of control, especially at high speeds. These defects may stem from poor-quality materials used during manufacturing or improper tire maintenance by service providers.
Weak Spots and Bulging
Tires with weak spots or bulges are prone to failure, especially under the stress of long-distance travel, rough road conditions, or uneven pavement. These defects often occur because of poor quality control during production or improper handling during installation. Weak spots can lead to blowouts or tread separation, increasing the risk of serious accidents.
Bead Failures
The tire's bead is the edge that sits against the wheel rim. Bead failures occur when this part of the tire is defective or improperly manufactured, causing air leaks or sudden deflation. When the bead fails, the tire can come off the wheel, leading to loss of control and accidents.
Each of these defects can turn a routine drive into a life-threatening situation. Victims of tire defects are often left dealing with injuries that could have been prevented if manufacturers had followed proper safety protocols.
Common Injuries Caused by Tire DefectsThe resulting accident can cause serious, life-altering injuries when a tire fails. Victims of tire defect-related accidents often face extensive medical treatment, long-term recovery, and financial hardship. Some of the most common injuries caused by tire defects include:
Head and Neck Injuries
The sudden jolt of a tire blowout or tread separation can cause drivers and passengers to sustain head and neck injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and whiplash are prevalent in rollover accidents, where occupants may be thrown around inside the vehicle or strike hard surfaces.
Spinal Cord Damage
Rollover accidents caused by tire defects often result in spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Victims of these injuries may face a lifetime of rehabilitation and require ongoing medical care.
Broken Bones
The force of a collision or rollover due to tire failure can cause fractures or broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. Recovery from these injuries can be long and painful, often requiring surgery and physical therapy.
Internal Injuries
High-impact accidents caused by defective tires can result in internal injuries, including organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
These injuries can have a lasting impact on victims' lives, both physically and financially. It's essential to hold tire manufacturers accountable for the harm their products cause and ensure that victims receive compensation for their injuries, medical bills, and lost wages.
Contact a Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer Today for Help With Your CaseIf you or a loved one suffered injuries in a car accident due to a mechanical defect, the experienced attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A. are here to help. We’ve spent decades representing car accident victims, fighting for the compensation they need to move forward and are immediately available to meet with you to discuss how we can help. Call us today at 301-441-2022 for a free consultation or fill out our online form to discuss your case.