While navigating the roadways, you may find yourself involved in a collision due to a tire blowout. Unlike standard car accidents, where the fault may be more straightforward, tire blowouts introduce a range of potentially liable parties. If you are unsure how liability is determined in these matters, please continue reading and contact a knowledgeable Prince George’s County Truck Accident Lawyer who can help you fight for the just compensation you deserve.
What Are Tire Blowouts?
If you hear a loud boom coming from your tire while you are driving, it’s important to understand that you may have experienced a blowout. A tire blowout occurs when a tire suddenly loses pressure and bursts. This can cause the vehicle to lose control.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the root cause of tire blowouts on big rigs has nothing to do with striking an object on the road. In reality, trucking safety is most compromised by poor maintenance. The importance of truck inspections cannot be overstated as these checks ensure vehicles are functioning properly.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Liability for these types of accidents is not always straightforward and will depend on several factors. However, it’s crucial to identify the responsible parties and pursue compensation for your damages by working with a seasoned lawyer.
Generally, truck drivers can be held liable for accidents caused by their vehicles if they fail to perform routine maintenance, including ensuring the tires are inflated properly and free of issues that can cause a blowout. For instance, if the tire pressure light flashes, they are responsible for taking the necessary steps to adjust the tire pressure so it’s properly inflated. They can be held accountable if they drove on a defective tire.
However, truck drivers aren’t the only entities that can face liability for an accident caused by a tire blowout. The trucking company that employs the truck driver can also be held liable if they don’t conduct regular maintenance or thorough inspections of their vehicles. Additionally, if the driver’s training didn’t include how to inspect tires, the company could face liability.
Furthermore, if the tire was defective due to a design flaw or manufacturing error, you may be able to hold the manufacturer liable. If the cargo was loaded incorrectly or the trailer was overloaded, the cargo loader could face liability.
As you can see, determining fault can be difficult. If you have been injured in a truck accident, please don’t hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer from Timian & Fawcett, LLC, who will work hard to ensure your claim is settled to your satisfaction. Our legal team is prepared to guide you through this complex process and fight for the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today for more information.
