Car Accidents Caused by Tire Blowouts in Charlotte

Tire blowouts are some of the most dangerous causes of car accidents. Recently, a retired Marine who was serving in the state patrol experienced a dangerous tire blowout. After his tire blew out, his police cruiser flipped several times. He was not wearing a seatbelt, and was thrown from the vehicle during the collision, and landed in the median. Sadly, he passed away from his injuries. Unfortunately, these types of incidents are far too common. A single tire blowout can cause a deadly single-car accident like this one or a multi-vehicle collision.

There are many different causes of tire blowouts. Unfortunately, many accidents caused by tire blowouts are preventable. Drivers have a responsibility to maintain their tires and ensure they are not deflated or damaged. When drivers forget to check their tires regularly, they are at risk of a tire blowout. The following are common causes of tire blowouts:

• Old tires with worn-out treads
• Hitting a curb can damage a tire, causing it to deflate
• Low tire pressure due to under-inflated tires
• Overloading a tractor-trailer
• Road hazards, including potholes and broken asphalt
• Driving at high speeds
• Carrying too much weight for the tire to operate effectively
• Oversteering, when the driver turns a steering wheel too sharply, causing a rollover or spin-out

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, at least 400 people die every year in car accidents due to tire blowouts. Additionally, approximately 80,000 people become injured in car accidents caused by tire blowouts. The NHTSA notes that hitting objects, driving through potholes, punctured tires, and driving on old deflated tires are common causes of these dangerous types of car accidents.

Experiencing a tire blowout while you are driving can be shocking and scary. If you are traveling at high speeds when your tire blows out, you may find it challenging to maintain control of your vehicle. Try to keep both of your hands firmly gripped to your steering wheel. Resist the urge to slam on your brakes. Instead, lightly pump your brakes while you gradually slow your car down.

Try to pull off to the highway or a safe area on the side of the road while maintaining a safe, slow speed. Turn on your emergency lights after you come to a complete stop. If necessary, call 911 and request emergency services to check your car before you exit. You may want to call a tire store and request someone to come out and change your tire if you do not have the replacement tire and equipment needed.

If you have been injured due to your tire blowout, be sure to inform the 911 operator that you need an ambulance to come to the scene of the accident. If you are able to do so safely, exit your vehicle and take pictures of the accident scene. You will need to contact your insurance company after the tire blowout accident, but we recommend speaking to a car accident lawyer first. Insurance companies may take advantage of customer statements and deny the claim. A car accident lawyer can advocate for your interest and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

One of the leading causes of tire blowout accidents is slow air leaks. Tire leaks can happen over a period of time, and drivers may not notice the leak until it is too late and they have already been in an accident. However, drivers have a responsibility to ensure their tires are functioning correctly and have enough air. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by someone's tire blowing out, you may be entitled to compensation.

You will be able to bring a claim against their insurance company for compensation for your injuries. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company. Sometimes filing a civil personal injury lawsuit becomes necessary. Successful plaintiffs can obtain compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or your loved one has become injured in a tire blowout car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The best thing you can do is consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can advise you of your legal options. Contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, today at 704-370-2828 to schedule your free initial consultation.