If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by a defective tire, our Houston, TX defective tire accident attorneys can help. At The Queenan Law Firm, P.C., we understand how frustrating and overwhelming a car crash can be for victims and their families. That is why we fight aggressively and strategically to get you the compensation you deserve.
To discuss your case in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (817) 476-1797.
Leading Causes of Defective Tire Accidents in Houston
We routinely use our vehicles and expect them to function correctly. Many times, we tend to forget just how easily an accident can happen. Unfortunately, thousands of people suffer from severe accidents caused by defective tires across the country. Our car’s tires are the only things keeping them stable. A tire defect can lead to an otherwise preventable accident and injuries. It is critical to always check your tires before and after using your vehicle. This way, you may be able to spot any dangerous defects.
Many things can cause defects in a tire. For instance, one of the most common causes of tire defects is errors during the design process. Tire designs have been evolving since the first models appeared in the mid-1800s. Today more than ever, tire manufacturers keep going back to the drawing board to come up with different solutions for the end-user.
As you may know, the pneumatic industry has evolved to the point where there are specific tires for specific situations. For instance, there are tires that are meant for snow, rough terrain, hot weather, etc. This means manufacturers have to be especially careful when creating new designs. No matter what a tire designer may come up with, they need to adhere to the safety requirements set forth in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
The FMVSS sets the standard for the most important aspects of tire design, manufacturing, and safety. If a tire manufacturer steers away from the safety standards set by the FMVSS, it can lead to severe car accidents.
Another common cause of defective tire accidents is an error in manufacturing. Every tire manufacturer has a duty to make sure that the production process follows all safety protocols. Part of these protocols require manufacturers to make sure everything from the chemical makeup of the tire to the sealing process is applied properly.
Errors in manufacturing are sometimes related to the design process. Generally, the tire’s maker will take the design and follow through as instructed. Therefore, a poorly designed tire can lead to a poorly manufactured tire, which can ultimately lead to a fatal accident. If you or someone you know was injured due to a defective tire in Houston, TX, our defective tire accident lawyer can help you hold the liable parties accountable for your losses.
Common Tire Defects That Can Cause Accidents
As mentioned above, a defective tire can lead to a devastating crash. However, you may wonder what kinds of defects are common in these accidents. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict when, where, and how the next defective tire crash will take place. Some of the most common tire defects that can lead to an accident include:
Tread Separation
Tread separation is one of the most common causes of tire-related accidents across the country. The tread is the rubber part of the tire that makes contact with the pavement. In other words, the tire tread is what makes mobility and traction happen. During the manufacturing process, tire manufacturers must make sure the tire tread is installed correctly. If the tread is not correctly installed, it can separate and cause the tire to blow out. This type of accident can be even more dangerous when traveling at high speeds on the highway: Pieces of the tread can fly out as it detaches from the tire, causing damage to nearby cars, passengers, and pedestrians.
Sidewall Failure
Sidewall failure can happen for different reasons. Many times, this defect occurs during the manufacturing process. Creating a tire takes many moving parts. There are many variables to consider during the manufacturing process that can affect the end result. For instance, any imbalance in the compounds used to seal a tire can lead to sidewall issues. The presence of air or moisture can cause bubbles to appear on the sidewall, which can cause it to crack and break over time. Sidewall defects can lead to a dangerous tire blowout.
Defective Bead
The tire bead is the gateway for getting air pressure into the tire’s casing and preventing it from escaping the tire. A defective bead can leak air over time. Under-inflation is a common cause of tire-related accidents. This condition can exert pressure on the sidewall, which can lead to a blowout.
Defective Tire Accident Attorney Offering Free Consultations in Houston, TX
The Houston, TX, defective tire accident lawyers at The Queenan Law Firm, P.C., have the skills, dedication, and experience necessary to hold the liable parties accountable for your losses. Thanks to our years of experience, we know what it takes to file your claim against negligent tire designers and manufacturers. Turn to our aggressive and strategic lawyers for high-quality legal representation. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (817) 476-1797.