Los Angeles Tire Defect Accident Attorneys

Without a doubt, tires are the most critical safety component on a car. In recent years, the public has been made increasingly aware of the dangers of defective tires. Blowouts can be caused by under inflation over inflation, wear and tear, impact, puncture damage, and numerous other causes. When a blowout can be attributed to a defect in manufacturing, the manufacturer may be held liable for the injuries or wrongful death of those involved in an accident. The Los Angeles tire defect accident attorneys at Estey & Bomberger represent victims of accidents caused by defective tires and tire blowouts.

What is a Tire Blowout?

You've likely seen remnants of tire pieces on freeways – evidence of a tire blowout. In the trucking industry, these pieces of rubber are known as "gators." When a tire rapidly deflates while a vehicle is moving, the event is called a tire blowout. More than 500 people die each year and thousands are injured in tire blowout accidents. The first sign of a tire blowout is typically a loud "boom" sound resonating throughout the vehicle. Following the deflation of the tire, the vehicle will likely "pull" toward the side of the vehicle where the tire deflated. 

Causes of Tire Blowouts
 
Tire blowouts are often associated with a loss of tire tread, wear and tear and old tires. Some tire blowouts are caused by defects in the manufacturing process. But the most common cause of tire failure and blowout is under inflation. Underinflated tires tend to experience "flexing" in the sidewalls of the tire, which causes them to become hot. The buildup of heat can cause tread separation, and a resulting blow out. Similarly, overinflated tires can increase the likelihood of a tire blowing out on impact with a curb, pothole, or debris. Overloading a vehicle can also cause a blowout. Check the load rating on your tires and make sure you are not overloading your vehicle.

Preventing Tire Blowout Accidents

Not all blowouts can be prevented. But with proper maintenance, you can prevent blowouts caused by wear and mileage, under inflation and over inflation, and blowouts caused by old tires. All 2008 and newer vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems equipped to alert the car's driver if a tire pressure is low. On the doorjamb of your car you will find a decal that tells you how much pressure your tires require. If you own a vehicle not equipped with tire pressure monitoring, purchase a tire pressure gauge and be familiar with how to use it. Also, you can ask technicians performing tire rotations, brake jobs or oil changes to check your tire pressure.

Our Experience in Defective Tire Claims

The Los Angeles auto accident lawyers at Estey & Bomberger have handled numerous defective tire accident cases. We understand the complex legal issues they present, and how to obtain the maximum possible financial recovery for a client's personal injury or wrongful death claim. Contact the Los Angeles tire defect lawyers at Estey & Bomberger today for a free and confidential consultation and case evaluation. If your accident was caused by a defective tire or manufacturing defect, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering related to the accident.