When a tire experiences tread separation, it can blow out or explode away from the vehicle. This comes with a high risk of losing vehicle control and related automobile accidents. If you get hurt in a tire tread separation accident in Las Vegas, you may be eligible for financial compensation from a tire manufacturer, an auto shop or a vehicle owner. Discuss your legal rights with an experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorney to learn more.
What Is a Tire Tread Separation Accident?
The tread of a tire, or the section of rubber that makes direct contact with the road, is incredibly important for the integrity and performance of the tire. By extension, it is critical for the roadworthiness of the entire vehicle.
If the tread of a tire separates, or pulls away from the body of the tire, it can cause the tire to come apart while the vehicle is in motion. This is known as a tire blowout; it differs from a slower and more controlled tire leak. When tire tread separates, it can cause a high-speed accident or serious vehicle rollover.
What Causes Tire Tread Separation Accidents?
Tire tread separation should never occur on a tire that is designed and manufactured correctly, has been properly installed on the vehicle, and has been inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear. Neglect in any of these stages of the tire’s life can cause tread separation accidents. Identifying the at-fault party in your case starts with an investigation into the cause of the tire blowout.
Tire Defects
Tire defects are the most common cause of tread separation accidents. Problems with the tire on a manufacturing level can increase the likelihood of tread cracks, bubbles and separation. A tire that contains a manufacturing, design or marketing defect may be unfit for consumer use. If a manufacturer or distributor fails to prevent, detect or warn consumers of a tire defect, they can be held responsible through a product liability claim.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicle owners have a legal duty of care to ensure the roadworthiness of their cars before driving. This includes regular and reasonable tire checks to look for problems. If a tire is allowed to fall into a dangerous state of disrepair by the owner of the vehicle, this person or party could be held liable. Examples of poor vehicle maintenance include private owners, trucking companies, taxi companies, bus companies and rental car companies.
Bad Installation
Repair professionals are responsible for using tires no more than three years old, checking for manufacturer recalls prior to installation, properly installing tires on the vehicle, avoiding tire underinflation or overinflation, and checking for tread cracks or problems.
The incorrect or negligent installation of a tire on a vehicle can lead to tire tread separation due to issues such as uneven wear and tear. Poor quality control at an auto shop or by a mechanic can point to negligence.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
While excessive heat conditions in Las Vegas can contribute to tire problems such as tread separation due to hot asphalt, it is possible that one or more parties caused your related car accident through negligence or the failure to act with proper care.
To find out if you have grounds to file a claim against one or more parties for your injuries and property damage, contact a car accident lawyer. An attorney working for you can investigate the crash, analyze the tire, identify the liable parties, communicate with insurance companies for you and negotiate for maximum compensation on your behalf.