Tire separation: The dangerous truth

Tire separations puts the driver into a dangerous situation. When the tread comes away from the tire, especially if it is a rear tire, it can cause the vehicle to swerve out of control and possibly cause a rollover – one of the most catastrophic accidents. Although rollovers only occur in 3% of accidents recorded in the U.S., they account for 33% of fatalities.

Tire treads usually separate from the tire for two main reasons: design and/or manufacturing. A typical radial tire is comprised of several different materials, most notably steel and rubber. These two materials do not easily bond together, and special adhesives are needed to ensure the tire remains together under normal operations.

Of course “normal operations” is the key phrase here. Manufacturers have claimed for years that they cannot be responsible for every possible factor including the road conditions, poor tire maintenance, and the experience of the driver. Even if the tire does separate, claim the manufacturers, any driver should be able to control the vehicle and avoid an accident. But documented tests show that professional drivers on a closed track knowing that a tire separation is about to happen still cannot keep some vehicles in control. Despite what the tire companies may say, drivers are not held responsible for any accidents that occur because they could not control the vehicle after a tire separation.

There are several reasons why tires do not bond properly and subsequently separate including:

Regardless of the reasons, ultimately it is the tire companies who are responsible for their own tires, and the auto manufacturers who use them. In summer 2005, Ford recalled over 10,000 vehicles because it found that tires were becoming damaged as the vehicles rolled down the production line. There are dozens if not hundreds of mistakes that can be made in the production of your tire from the designer’s desk to delivery that could compromise the safety of you and your family.

In short, tire separations and resulting accidents are not usually the fault of the driver. If you have been injured in an accident after a tread separation or blow out, call a personal injury lawyer at Jim S. Adler & Associates. We have more than 30 years of experience seeking damages for our clients, and we will advise you of your rights before you decide to pursue your claim. Contact us right now for a free case review by clicking the link on this page, or calling one of our offices directly. You have the right to full and just compensation – and Jim S. Adler & Associates will help you get it.

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