Car Accidents Due to Tire Failure
A vehicle can spin out if a tire failure happens. And if that happens when traveling at high speeds, accidents can be incredibly harmful, both to the driver who experienced the tire failure and all of the cars close behind.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that over 700 fatalities occurred in 2017 because of tire-related accidents. Every year, tire failures result in car and truck accidents on roads and highways in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and across the country. If you were hurt when a tire blew out, connect with a Bucks County personal injury lawyer.
Tire Maintenance and Safety Practices Can Help
There are habits that individuals can develop to protect their own vehicles from tire failure. For example, checking tire pressure and staying up to date on tire rotations can be beneficial.
Also, the age of tires can be a factor. Old tires can be hazardous because the rubber can degrade and the tires can lose their thread. While your mechanic or car dealership can assess your tires and give you a specific time when the tires will need to be replaced for safety reasons, there is no precise timeline to follow. Yet, there are indicators to watch for.
Signs of tire age and possible safety concerns to look out for include the following:
- Bulges or bumps
- Crack or cuts
- Tread wear that is uneven
- Vibration when driving
When there is inclement weather, threadbare tires can create risks. Wet roads and highways can be particularly dangerous when tires are bare.
Receiving a Recall Notice and Staying Informed
If you receive a recall notice about your tires, or any other issue, take action. It is important to resolve recall notice issues immediately. After all, a recall means the vehicle has a serious problem, an issue that could potentially result in injury or death.
Manufacturers have a responsibility to provide safe tires to consumers. If a tire concern comes to light after products have been released to the public, a recall will be put into effect in order to correct the defects. A recall notice for tires means the tires themselves have a problem separate from an individual’s efforts for optimal vehicle maintenance.
Registering new tires paves the way to knowing if a recall happens. It can also be helpful to stay aware of tire brands as one may be a better fit for your vehicle.
And once you are aware of tire safety fundamentals, share your knowledge with friends and family. To keep roads safe, every person who drives should know how to put air in tires, check tire pressure, and know what to do if a tire goes flat.
Were you in a car accident because of a tire failure? Share the details of your auto or truck accident with the attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C.. Our attorneys know how to secure the maximum settlement amount possible. Tire-related accidents do happen, and when they do you need a lawyer working for you. Reach out today by calling 215-968-6602.
Resource:
nhtsa.gov/equipment/tires