North Carolina Defective Tire Accident Attorney

One thing most motorists take for granted is the fact that the tires they have on their vehicle are safe to use. This may be due to the fact that there are only a few things that would indicate if a tire on a vehicle is not safe, like a tire pressure gauge. In reality, when a tire becomes defective the results that usually follow are very dangerous and, in some instances, deadly. Because of this, the tires that you have on your vehicle should not be overlooked and if there is any sort of problem, it is best to address the problem before it is too late.

Common Causes of Defective Tires

Unfortunately, not all defective tires can be spotted immediately and not everyone knows what to look for in order to determine whether they have an already defective tire, or soon to be defective tire. Tires, though simple in appearance, are put through a long and complicated process during manufacturing. A defect can occur in the manufacturing process if the manufacturer uses poor components, if the tire is cooked at the wrong temperature, or if the tire is exposed to elements such as moisture, sawdust, grease, or rust leading to contamination. Sometimes a manufacturer will properly manufacture a tire but keep them stored for so long they become defective due to the chemicals degrading. If any of these events occur, along with possibly other harmful events, the party who was injured from the defective tire can seek legal remedies against the manufacturer. In some cases, if the tire is found to have been developed improperly, then the injured party can seek legal damages against the developer.

Why Hire Auger & Auger

The product liability lawyers at Auger & Auger have experience, knowledge and resources in the handling of defective tire car accident claims.  It is imperative that you speak with an attorney immediately following a car crash that was caused by a blow out or faulty tire.  In order to prove your case, we will need to have an accident reconstruction expert and/or tire engineer examine the scene, vehicle and tire to determine causation. Preserving the vehicle is necessary your case.

Steps you can take to avoid being a victim of a defective tire accident

• One option is to keep your tires properly inflated. All tires have a specific amount of air which it needs to properly function and it is measured by the pounds per square inch (PSI). According to the Department of Motor Vehicle, the recommended PSI number can be found on the inside of the driver side door, if on a newer vehicle, or in the owner’s manual if it is an older vehicle. It is very important to consistently check the PSI for it can fluctuate depending on the weather. During warmer weather the PSI may rise, while during the colder weather it may drop. Keeping your tires at the appropriate PSI will not only give you the best chance at having a safe ride, but it will also ensure the best quality ride and maximum amount of tire life.
• Another step one can take is to have the tires consistently rotated, balanced, and aligned. According to Tirerack.com, tires should be rotated every 3,000-5,000 miles. Doing this will keep the tires worn evenly, keep the car from vibrating, and it will also help maximize the tire life.
• One easy and simple way to check if your tires are in need of replacing is by using a penny to measure the depth of the tread. Placing the penny between the tread upside down, if you cannot see Abe Lincoln’s hair the tires are fine. If his hair is partially visible, then the tires are getting to the end of their life. Finally, if you can see his entire head then the tires should be replaced as soon as possible.
• Some more obvious ways to see if your tires need to be replaced are if you see any signs of cracking or deformities in the tire, there is a shaking while driving, unusual noises and vibrations coming from the tires, and the vehicle pulling to one side while holding the steering wheel straight.

Tires may be overlooked at times but there is no denying their importance to our everyday lives. It is crucial to keep a sharp eye out for the signs of tire failure and take the proper steps necessary in order to avoid serious injury or death. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident involving a defective tire, contact an attorney and they will be able to assist you in your potential claim.