When you think about the causes of car accidents, you may not immediately think about tires. However, every year in the U.S., an average of 11,000 crashes occur because of tire problems. In a recent year, 562 people lost their lives in tire-related accidents. Often, these accidents could have been prevented with proper tire maintenance and proper inflation and rotation. Sometimes, however, accidents are caused by defective tires.
Improperly maintained or defective tires can cause blowouts, reduce traction, or cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. If you were involved in an accident, and the condition of the tires played a role, you may be able to bring a claim or lawsuit against a party whose negligence contributed to the problem. Potential negligent parties include:
- The other driver, if they failed to maintain their tires properly. Drivers must use reasonable care to keep their vehicles in a safe condition, and if they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for any harm their negligence causes.
- If the tires were defectively designed or manufactured, the manufacturer and distributor may be liable for failure to warn about defects or for misrepresenting how the tires should be used or maintained.
Tire Safety Tips
You should know how to take care of your tires for your safety and the safety of other people on the road. Proper tire maintenance can also save you money by increasing your car’s fuel efficiency and extending the life of your tires.
For best results, follow these tire safety tips:
- Buy the right size tires. To find the right size for your car, check the owner’s manual or the information on the driver’s side door edge or post, or ask the tire dealer.
- Keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure. At least once a month, check the pressure of all your tires, including your spare. For an accurate reading, do this when the car has not been driven for at least the last three hours. Know where to find information about the proper pressure for your tires. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your car in case you hit a bump or a pothole and lose pressure suddenly.
- Check your tires’ tread. Your tires should be replaced when the tread gets worn down to the level of the tread indicators. Check the tread every month when you’re checking the pressure.
- Be aware of tire aging. Most people drive their cars enough so the tread will wear down before tire aging becomes problematic. However, if you drive your vehicle infrequently or are in a warm, sunny climate, check your tires for cracks, which can indicate your tires have aged and are unsafe.
- Check for tire damage. Look for signs of damage, such as cuts, uneven tread wear, and bulges. Vibration while you are driving can also be a sign of tire damage.
- Rotate your tires. Your owner’s manual will have information on how often to rotate your tires and what rotation pattern to use.
- Align wheels and balance tires. When you install new tires, they should be balanced, and the wheel alignment should be checked. You should also have alignment and balance checked periodically.
By following good tire maintenance practices, you can increase the safety of your car. Unfortunately, other drivers may not be as careful. If you are injured in a car crash caused by someone else’s negligence, call Garmey Law at (207) 481-4683 or contact us through our website for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer to determine your legal options.