Even if you’ve never been affected by a commercial truck tire blowout, you’ve probably seen the large tires on the side of the road. The reality is that these tires, when they blow out, can lead to significant accidents in a range of different ways. The blowout can cause the truck to lose control and the tire itself can cause significant damage. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to a tire blowout, make sure to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Phoenix.
How Do Tire Blowouts Cause Accidents?
When a blowout occurs, the driver may swerve, skid, or jackknife, putting other drivers at risk. Additionally, the debris from the tire can become a dangerous obstacle for other vehicles on the road. These accidents can result in rear-end collisions, rollovers, or even multi-car pileups.
Common ways tire blowouts lead to accidents include:
- Loss of vehicle control. When a truck tire blows out, it can lead to the operator losing control of the truck, leading to crashes with other cars or objects on the road.
- Roadway obstructions. The remnants of a blown-out tire can create sudden obstacles on the road, causing other drivers to swerve and collide with vehicles or roadside objects.
- Sudden braking. Vehicles traveling behind a truck may need to brake suddenly to avoid the debris, leading to rear-end collisions or chain-reaction accidents.
What Causes Tire Blowouts on Commercial Trucks?
Tire blowouts are often preventable, but they can still happen for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of truck tire blowouts include:
- Overloading. Trucks that exceed their weight limits put extra pressure on their tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout. The added weight strains the tires, making them more susceptible to damage, especially during long hauls or in hot weather.
- Improper maintenance. Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for regularly inspecting and maintaining their tires. Failing to check for tire wear, underinflation, or other issues can lead to dangerous blowouts.
- Tire defects. Some tire blowouts are caused by defects in the tire itself. Manufacturers have an obligation to ensure their products meet safety standards.
- Road conditions. Potholes, sharp debris, and poor road maintenance can all contribute to a tire blowout. Truck tires are particularly vulnerable to damage from rough or poorly maintained roads.
- Hot weather. Heat can cause tires to expand, increasing the pressure inside. In summer months, when road temperatures are high, the risk of a blowout is significantly increased.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Tire Blowout Truck Accident?
Determining liability after a tire blowout truck accident is often complex. Multiple parties (some you may not even be aware of) may be responsible, depending on the cause of the blowout. Potentially liable parties include:
- The truck driver. If the driver failed to inspect or properly maintain the tires, they could be held liable for the accident. Drivers are required to follow safety regulations and ensure their vehicles are operating correctly before hitting the road.
- The trucking company. Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining each fleet vehicle and ensuring that all they meet safety standards. If the company failed to perform necessary maintenance or overloaded the truck, they could be held liable for the blowout and resulting accident.
- The tire manufacturer. If the blowout was caused by a defect in the tire itself, the manufacturer could be liable for the accident. Defective products can lead to serious accidents, and manufacturers have a duty to ensure the safety of their tires.
- Third-party maintenance providers. If a third-party company was responsible for maintaining the truck or its tires, and their negligence contributed to the blowout, they could also share liability for the accident.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Tire Blowout Truck Accident?
Victims of tire blowout truck accidents can recover compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses. This includes both immediate medical costs, such as hospital stays and surgeries, as well as ongoing treatment needs like physical therapy and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. In cases of long-term or permanent disability, you may also recover damages for future lost earnings.
- Property damage. A tire blowout can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Compensation can help cover repair costs or the replacement of your vehicle if it was totaled in the accident.
- Pain and suffering. Victims of severe accidents often experience long-term physical and emotional pain. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering compensation are meant to address the impact of your injuries on your quality of life.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a tire blowout truck collision in Arizona, it is important to act quickly. These cases often involve complicated liability issues, and a knowledgeable truck accident attorney in Phoenix can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.