In California, accidents occur daily, often leading to severe injuries. While negligence is a common cause, vehicle malfunctions also contribute significantly, with faulty tires often being the culprit. Many overlook the importance of tires, but even an ordinary blowout can lead to an accident severe enough to require a California personal injury attorney’s assistance.
Tires are essential to maintaining control of your vehicle and ensuring its safe operation. When a tire failure occurs, regardless of the cause, the consequences can be catastrophic, often leading to permanent injuries. Tire failures can be attributed to manufacturing defects, poor maintenance, or outright neglect.
The Risks of Tread Separation
Tread separation is a prevalent form of tire failure, characterized by the tire body’s detachment from the treads. This is usually seen in tires where the steel reinforcement (belts) is insufficiently bonded to the body. Often, this issue is detected shortly after installation as it typically results in strong driving vibrations.
The Dangers of Incorrect Inflation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that a mere 20% of drivers monitor the maintenance and inflation status of their tires. Negligence in this area can lead to unsafe underinflation or overinflation. Underinflated tires offer less control and can even be dislodged from the rim during driving. Conversely, overinflated tires are more susceptible to blowouts as the internal air heats up significantly while driving.
The Issue of Aging Rubber
Rubber is not ageless. When a vehicle is left unused for an extended period, the tires can deteriorate. Exposure to the sun and its UV rays can also cause sidewall damage to the tires, making them weak and susceptible to cracking.
Mechanical Problems
Often, pre-existing damage to the steering and suspension system or worn-out components can result in uneven tire wear and unintended tire damage. This could exert uneven pressure on the tires during usage and lead to tire damage if not rectified.
Subpar Materials
While not something an average consumer can rectify, it is crucial to be aware of potential use of substandard materials or techniques by some manufacturers to cut costs during tire production. Unfortunately, these cheaper materials are often more failure prone.
Identifying Tire Defects
Even without technical expertise, you can visually inspect your tires. Before heading out for work or embarking on a weekend trip, look out for these signs. If you notice any of the following, it is crucial to get your tires inspected professionally:
- Blisters, bulges, or bubbles
- Uneven tread wear
- Worn out treads
- Sidewall damage like cuts or cracks
- Vibration while driving
Injuries Resulting from Accidents Due to Defective Tires
If a defective tire failure causes a car accident in which you are injured, there is a strong chance you can recover some of your damages through a personal injury claim. It is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case. Contact our office at 909-982-0707 today for legal support; we offer a free consultation.
