How Common Are Tire Defects?

Tire defects may not be something you think much about when traveling on the road. However, they can play a significant role in car accidents.

These tire defects can cause the car to lose control and veer into other vehicles or stationary objects.

In many cases, the responsible party is not the driver of the vehicle, but whoever designed, manufactured, or installed the product.

How common are tire defects? We will look at this issue and what you can do if you have suffered damages in an incident.

Tire Defects in the United States

While tire defects are not the most common cause of car accidents, they still contribute to a large number of crashes each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that tire-related issues are involved in approximately 11,000 accidents annually in the U.S.

Older tires, improper maintenance, and manufacturing defects cause a large portion of these accidents.

These defects can occur due to flaws in the production process or just the natural wear and tear over time. As tires age, they can become prone to problems like dry rot or tread separation, which can lead to catastrophic failures when least expected.

What Are Common Types of Tire Defects?

Here are some of the most common defects that drivers should be aware of:

Tread Separation

One of the most dangerous defects is tread separation, which happens when the outer layer of the tire comes off. This can be caused by poor manufacturing or prolonged wear. It can become dangerous when the driver loses control of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds.

Blowouts

A blowout is a sudden and complete loss of air in the tire. This is caused by a puncture, defect, or improper inflation. Blowouts can happen quickly and cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

These issues are more common in tires that are older or have manufacturing flaws. However, they can also happen if the tire is over-inflated or not properly maintained.

Sidewall Bulging

If you notice a bulge on the side of your tire, that is a clear sign of trouble. A tire construction defect or poor-quality materials causes bulging sidewalls. Over time, this can weaken the tire and increase the risk of failure, especially at high speeds.

Uneven Wear

While uneven wear is linked to things like poor alignment or tire maintenance, it can also result from manufacturing defects like poorly designed treads or materials. When your tires wear unevenly, it can affect how your vehicle handles. This increases the chances of losing control of the car in slippery conditions.

Cracking

Over time, tires can begin to crack due to exposure to the sun, extreme temperatures, and the natural aging process. However, cracks can also indicate a manufacturing defect. These cracks can cause the tire to lose integrity.

Valve Stem Failure

The valve stem is the small component that lets air into your tire. If it fails or becomes damaged, it can cause a slow leak or sudden deflation. While valve stem failures are less common, they can still pose a major safety risk if not addressed.

Do You Have a Product Liability Claim?

If a tire defect caused your accident, you might be able to file a product liability claim.

Tire manufacturers are responsible for producing safe products. If a defect leads to an accident, they can be held accountable.

Potentially responsible parties include:

• The tire manufacturer
• Distributor
• Retailer
• Vehicle manufacturer

A product liability claim can be pursued if a defect caused the accident. Successful claims can lead to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

A skilled attorney will help make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damages caused by the tire defect.

Tire defects are a real risk on the road that can lead to serious accidents. If you have suffered injuries or damages from a defective tire, you might be able to take legal action.

Belsky & Horowitz, LLC, is ready to discuss your case so you can take the next steps.