What Type of Tire Defects Can Cause Car Accidents?

 Posted on August 08, 2023 in Personal Injury

Tire defects can put drivers and passengers at serious risk of accidents and injuries. Understanding the types of tire defects that can lead to car accidents is crucial for maintaining road safety. Today, we will discuss some common tire defects and how they can contribute to car accidents, which is essential for maintaining optimal road safety for the driver and others on the roadways. If a tire defect has left you injured, contact a distinguished personal injury attorney to pursue compensation related to your injuries.

Tread Separation

This occurs when the tire’s tread detaches from the body of the tire. This can create instability, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The separation is often due to adhesive failure, poor bonding, or manufacturing defects. In tread separation cases, the tire may suddenly deflate or puncture, leading to a potential accident. Regular tire maintenance, such as checking for proper tread depth and tire pressure, can help detect and prevent tread separation.

Belt Separation

When the steel belts within the tire separate and lose their bond with other components, belt separation can occur. This defect can cause the tire to weaken substantially, leading to blowouts or sudden loss of control. Belt separation is often a result of manufacturing defects or improper tire construction. Regular inspections by professionals and visual checks by drivers can detect signs of belt separation, allowing for the timely replacement of defective tires and preventing dangerous accidents.

Sidewall Cracking

This refers to cracks appearing on the tire’s sidewalls—factors like age, heat, or sunlight exposure most commonly cause this defect. Cracked sidewalls weaken the tire’s structural integrity, potentially leading to tire blowouts while driving. Drivers should regularly inspect their tires for signs of sidewall cracking. If such cracks are identified, swift replacement is crucial to avoid accidents and injuries on the road.

Poor Tread

Inadequate tread depth is often seen as a tire defect that can increase the risk of accidents. Tires with worn-out or insufficient tread depth may fail to grip the road properly, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. The loss of traction can lead to skidding or hydroplaning, resulting in loss of control. Regularly checking the tread depth using a depth gauge can help identify tires that need replacement to maintain safety on the road.

Contact an El Paso County Tire Defect Attorney

Various tire defects can contribute to car accidents and jeopardize the safety of drivers and passengers. If you were injured in a car accident related to a tire defect, contact the experienced El Paso County tire defect lawyer with James Kennedy, P.L.L.C.. Call 915-544-5200 for a free consultation.

Source - https://www.continental-tires.com/products/b2c/tire-knowledge/tire-damages.html