Tires are arguably the most safety-critical components of any vehicle. In operation, they deliver the traction, stability, and responsiveness that is required to stay in control under all but extreme conditions, such as high rates of speed or severe weather. However, when a tire fails due to some defect, the results can be devastating. Blowout, tread separation, or manufacturing defects cause accidents that are frequently violent, abrupt, and horrifically injurious or fatal.
In this article, we will discuss the causes of faulty tire accidents, the party who could be held responsible, how victims can file claims, and what actions to take if you or someone you know has been a victim.
Understanding Tire Defects
Not all tire failures are due to defects. Some are caused by wear and tear or poor maintenance. However, defective tire accidents are different in that the tire fails due to a flaw in its design, manufacturing, or labeling.
Common Types of Tire Defects
- Tread Separation
This occurs when the outer layer of the tire detaches from the inner layers. It’s often the result of poor adhesion during the manufacturing process and can cause a sudden loss of control. - Sidewall Blowouts
Weaknesses in the sidewall can cause the tire to explode under pressure. A blowout at high speed can lead to a devastating crash. - Bead Failure
The bead is the edge of the tire that sits on the rim. If it fails, the tire can come off the rim entirely, especially during cornering or sudden stops. - Improper Curing
During the manufacturing process, tires must be cured (hardened) properly. If the curing process is incomplete or uneven, it can lead to structural weaknesses. - Design Flaws
Some tires may be inherently unsafe due to their design, such as inadequate tread patterns or faulty materials. - Aging Tires Sold as New
Some retailers sell old tires that have sat in storage for years. These tires may look unused but can be brittle and prone to failure.
How Tire Defects Cause Accidents
When a tire suddenly fails, the driver can lose control of the vehicle in a split second. Depending on the circumstances, the vehicle may:
- Swerve off the road
- Collide with other vehicles
- Rollover
- Spin out of control
These crashes often happen at highway speeds and leave little time to react, making injuries more severe and fatalities more likely.
Who Is Liable for a Defective Tire Accident?
Determining liability in a defective tire case can be complex and may involve multiple parties. The following entities could potentially be held responsible:
1. Tire Manufacturer
If the tire was defectively manufactured or poorly designed, the tire manufacturer is often the primary party held liable under product liability laws. Victims do not need to prove negligence—just that the tire was defective and caused harm.
2. Vehicle Manufacturer
Some vehicles are sold with defective or mismatched tires. If the automaker failed to ensure tire compatibility or used substandard tires, they may also share liability.
3. Tire Retailers or Installers
Retailers and mechanics can be liable if they:
- Sold used or recalled tires
- Improperly installed tires
- Recommended incorrect tires for the vehicle
4. Distributors and Wholesalers
If the supply chain knew of the tire defect or failed to remove recalled products, they may also be included in the legal claim.
5. Maintenance Providers
Negligent maintenance, such as improper alignment, incorrect inflation, or failure to identify worn-out tires, could place liability on a mechanic or service center.
Legal Theories Used in Defective Tire Lawsuits
Tire defect cases are typically pursued under product liability laws and may involve the following legal claims:
- Strict Liability: The manufacturer is liable for selling a defective product regardless of fault.
- Negligence: The manufacturer or seller failed to act with reasonable care.
- Breach of Warranty: The product did not meet the standards guaranteed by the manufacturer.
Failure to Warn: The product lacked proper instructions or warnings regarding risks.
Notable Tire Recalls and Defect Cases
Defective tires have prompted massive recalls in the past. One of the most notorious cases involved Firestone and Ford in the early 2000s, where defective Firestone tires on Ford Explorers caused hundreds of accidents and fatalities. The recall involved over 6 million tires and resulted in lawsuits, government scrutiny, and new tire safety regulations.
Other manufacturers such as Goodyear, Michelin, and Cooper Tires have also faced product liability claims over defective tire issues in recent decades.
What Compensation Can Victims Recover?
Victims of defective tire accidents may be entitled to significant compensation for their losses, which could include:
- Medical expenses (hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendant for egregious behavior or repeated negligence.
Steps to Take After a Defective Tire Accident
If you or a loved one has been in an accident due to a suspected tire defect, the following steps can help preserve your rights and strengthen your legal claim:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and safety come first. Make sure to get medical treatment, even if injuries seem minor at first.
2. Preserve the Evidence
Do not discard or repair the damaged tire or vehicle. Keep everything intact, as this evidence is crucial for expert analysis and litigation.
3. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the tire(s), skid marks, debris, and vehicle damage. Gather witness information and police reports.
4. Contact an Experienced Attorney
Defective tire cases often require detailed investigations, expert witnesses, and knowledge of product liability laws. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate this complex process and fight for full compensation.
5. Report the Defect
Your health and safety come first. Make sure to get medical treatment, even if injuries seem minor at first.
Statute of Limitations
The time limit for filing a defective product lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1 to 4 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect. In wrongful death cases, the statute usually starts from the date of the victim’s death. Failing to file within the appropriate window may result in your case being dismissed.
Preventing Tire-Related Accidents
While some accidents are unavoidable due to manufacturing defects, regular maintenance and inspection can help reduce the risk of tire failure. Consider these tips:
- Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
- Replace tires every 6-10 years regardless of tread
- Watch for bulges, cracks, or unusual wear
- Avoid overloading your vehicle
- Register your tires with the manufacturer to receive recall notices
About the Author
Neil Bhartia
Neil Bhartia isn’t your typical, stuffy attorney that you see on TV. While some have their sights exclusively on money and treat their clients like a number, Neil takes a personal interest in every single client he has. As an empath, Neil understands that people that seek legal help are typically in an involuntary, and stressful situation, and he goes out of his way to diffuse the stress and educate clients on each every detail of the legal process.
