Who May Be Liable for a Car Crash Caused by a Tire Blowout in Fort Worth?

Tire blowouts are an unexpected hazard that can cause the driver to lose control, triggering a car crash. Determining liability for these crashes can be tricky, especially if the crash is not caused by any driver, but the result of debris on the road.

Injured in a crash caused by a tire blowout? At Anderson Cummings & Drawhorn, our Fort Worth car accident attorneys are fierce advocates for victims injured by the negligence of other drivers. When we represent you, we thoroughly investigate each case, identify responsible parties and pursue fair compensation while you concentrate on healing. Our team is deeply committed to protecting your rights throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a no-risk, completely free consultation to evaluate your situation and discuss your options moving forward.

Call (817) 920-9000 today to request your free case review.

What Causes Tire Blowouts on the Highways?

Tire blowouts on highways often result from several factors that can lead to catastrophic accidents when vehicles travel at high speeds. Here are the most common causes of these dangerous incidents.

Underinflated or Overinflated Tires

Incorrect tire pressure significantly increases blowout risk. Underinflated tires flex excessively, generating excessive heat, making them more susceptible to damage from impacts with road hazards. Regular pressure checks are essential for preventing these dangerous failures.

Excessive Tire Wear and Aging

Tires naturally degrade over time through exposure to UV rays, fluctuating temperatures and regular use. Worn treads reduce grip and structural integrity, while aging rubber becomes brittle and prone to sudden failure. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six t0 ten years regardless of visible wear.

Road Hazards and Debris

Sharp objects, potholes and road debris can cause immediate punctures or create damage that develops into a blowout later. Even seemingly minor impacts can create internal structural weaknesses in the tire that eventually lead to catastrophic failure at highway speeds.

Improper Tire Installation

Errors during mounting, balancing or valve stem installation can create weaknesses that lead to blowouts. Professional installation helps ensure proper seating on the rim and appropriate torque on lug nuts, both critical for tire stability at high speeds.

Overloading Vehicles

Exceeding a vehicle’s recommended weight capacity places excessive strain on tires, causing them to overheat and potentially fail. This is particularly dangerous for trucks, SUVs and vehicles pulling trailers where weight distribution also affects tire performance.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Intense Texas heat accelerates tire deterioration by increasing internal pressure and weakening rubber compounds. Rapid temperature fluctuations can also stress tire materials, while wet or icy conditions may hide hazards that could damage tires and lead to subsequent blowouts.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Tire Blowout Accident in Texas?

A blowout can cause unfortunate accidents; depending on the incident’s specific circumstances, multiple parties may bear legal responsibility.

Tire Manufacturers and Retailers

Tire manufacturers and retailers may be liable if the blowout resulted from manufacturing defects, design flaws or failure to warn consumers about known issues. Product liability claims can be pursued when the tire was defective when it left the manufacturer or when a retailer sold expired, improperly stored or tires known to be defective.

Vehicle Owners and Operators

Drivers have a responsibility to maintain their vehicles in safe operating conditions. If a tire blowout occurs due to a poorly maintained vehicle, then the owner may be responsible for the damages if a crash results. Vehicle owners have a legal duty to ensure cars remain in good working order, which includes servicing or replacing tires with visible damage. They are also responsible for making sure their tires maintain the correct pressure, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Maintenance Service Providers

Mechanics and service technicians who recently worked on the vehicle may share liability if their negligence contributed to the blowout. This includes improper installation, failure to identify and replace damaged tires during inspection or negligent tire repair work.

Government Entities Responsible for Road Maintenance

When road hazards such as large potholes, construction debris or improperly maintained roadways contribute to a tire damage, government entities responsible for road maintenance may share liability. These claims involve special procedures and shorter filing deadlines under governmental immunity laws.

Other Drivers Who Contributed to the Accident

In some cases, other drivers’ actions may contribute to these accidents, such as when debris falls from another vehicle or when another driver’s actions force evasive maneuvers that damage tires. These drivers may share liability for the resulting injuries and damages.

Commercial Vehicle Companies and Employers

When blowouts involve commercial vehicles, the transportation company or employer may be responsible under the state’s vicarious liability laws. Vicarious liability holds certain parties responsible for the negligent actions of another party. In this situation, vicarious liability could apply if an employer is responsible for overseeing the vehicle’s maintenance, but failed to properly service the tires.

Evidence Needed to Prove Liability in Fort Worth Tire Blowout Cases

Successfully proving liability in a blowout case requires thorough evidence collection and expert analysis to establish both the cause of the blowout and the responsible parties. The following key elements can significantly strengthen your legal claim:

• Tire fragments and vehicle parts from the accident scene revealing manufacturing defects or maintenance issues
• Photographs of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks and all vehicle damage from multiple angles
• Police reports containing officer observations, witness statements and authoritative details on the crash
• Tire maintenance records showing service history, rotations and previous repairs
• Expert inspection reports from tire specialists who can identify defects or patterns of failure
• Surveillance or dashcam footage that captured the accident sequence
• Accident reconstruction analysis using physical evidence to establish the sequence of events
• Medical records linking injuries directly to the accident circumstances

Tire Maintenance Tips to Prevent Blowouts in Texas

Regular tire maintenance is essential for Texas drivers, as the state’s extreme heat, varying road conditions and long driving distances create unique challenges that can dramatically increase blowout risks. Following these preventative measures can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing a dangerous tire failure:

• Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips, adjusting to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (usually found on the driver’s door jamb).
• Inspect tires visually for bulges, cracks or objects embedded in the tread when performing pressure checks.
• Rotate tires every 5,000-7,000 miles to ensure even wear patterns.
• Store spare tires properly and inspect them regularly, as emergency tires deteriorate even when unused.
• Avoid overloading your vehicle beyond its recommended weight capacity, which puts excessive strain on tires.
• Reduce speed during extreme heat (95°F+) as hot pavement significantly increases blowout risk.
• Replace tires that are over six years old, even if tread appears adequate, as rubber compounds break down in the heat.
• Consider all-season or heat-resistant tire models specifically designed for southern climates.
• Have professional tire inspections performed twice yearly, especially before summer and winter.

How Insurance Handles Tire Blowout Accidents in Fort Worth

Insurance coverage for these accidents depends on the specific circumstances of the incident and the types of policies involved. Most standard auto insurance policies will not cover tire replacement, but comprehensive and collision coverage typically handle vehicle damage if you lose control and crash. Liability insurance becomes crucial when your blowout causes damage to other vehicles or property. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) protects you if another driver’s tire failure causes an accident and they lack adequate insurance.

Insurance companies may resist paying claims if they can establish negligent maintenance, such as driving on visibly worn tires. They may also deny payment on a claim if the blowout resulted from road hazards they determine could have been avoided.

When insurers dispute liability, having our highly qualified Fort Worth legal team manage your case significantly improve your chances of being fairly compensated. At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we are prepared to fight tirelessly to ensure you recover the maximum possible compensation for your medical costs, vehicle damage, lost wages and other damages.

Compensation You Can Recover After a Tire Blowout Crash

Victims of tire accidents may be entitled to substantial compensation beyond just vehicle repairs, particularly when the incident resulted from another party’s negligence or a defective product. A comprehensive claim can help recover the following damages:

• Emergency medical treatment costs
• Ongoing medical expenses, including estimated future care
• Rehabilitation costs, including physical and occupational therapy
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Rental car costs
• Lost wages
• Reduced earning capacity if your future employment opportunities become more limited
• Physical pain and emotional suffering
• Emotional distress, such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life to reimburse you for activities you used to enjoy but can no longer do
• Property damage for damages beyond your vehicle, such as personal items destroyed in the crash.
• Punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant in cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct.

How a Fort Worth Personal Injury Attorney Helps After a Tire Blowout

Your Anderson Cummings & Drawhorn personal injury attorney will provide crucial guidance and representation after a blowout accident, handling complex legal processes while you focus on recovery. An experienced lawyer offers these essential services to maximize your compensation:

• Thorough Investigation: We examine accident scenes to assess crash debris and other evidence, such as skid marks and tire fragments, to help identify liable parties.
• Expert Consultation: When needed, we consult with tire specialists and accident reconstructionist to clarify causation.
• Evidence Preservation: We take immediate action to ensure preservation of key evidence.
• Liability Determination: Our legal team analyzes all contributing factors to determine all potentially liable parties.
• Insurance Negotiation: We communicate with adjusters on your behalf to prevent tactics that aim to minimize your claim’s value.
• Claim Valuation: Calculating appropriate compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and future expenses
• Meet Critical Deadlines: We adhere to and meet all critical deadlines, including the statute of limitations for filing your lawsuit.
• Settlement Evaluation: Our highly qualified lawyers accurately assess your claim and negotiate for the full value to ensure you are fairly compensated.
• Litigation Representation: We are always prepared to go to court on your behalf if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
• Manufacturer Accountability: We product liability claims against tire manufacturers if their defective products contributed to your crash.
• Stress Reduction: We manage all the complexities of your legal case, freeing you up to fully focus on your physical and emotional recovery.

Time Limits for Filing a Tire Blowout Injury Claim in Texas

In Texas, strict time limits govern how long you have to file a legal claim after a tire blowout accident. The statute of limitations for car crash claims is just two years from the date of the incident for personal injury claims. This relatively short window makes prompt action essential, as gathering evidence becomes more difficult with time. Tire fragments quickly get cleared away, witness memories fade, and other crucial records, including video footage, may get lost or destroyed. For cases involving government entities, the state gives you just six months from the date of the accident to provide formal notice of your intent to take legal action.

Claims against tire manufacturers or retailers follow the same two-year limitation period but may be extended under the “discovery rule” if the defect was not reasonably discoverable immediately after the accident. Limited exceptions might extend deadlines for minors (who can file until age 20), those with mental incapacity, or in cases where the defendant fraudulently concealed their responsibility.

Missing these critical deadlines typically results in the court dismissing your claim. If this occurs, you will not be able to recover compensation for your injuries, property damage and other losses.

Involved in a Tire Blowout Crash? Call Our Law Firm To Discuss Your Situation

Do not face the aftermath of a tire blowout accident alone. Navigating the complex liability, insurance challenges and compensation issues requires experienced legal guidance. Acting quickly preserves crucial evidence and protects your right to full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and suffering.

At Anderson Cummings & Drawhorn, we have helped countless Fort Worth victims secure favorable outcomes. Our attorneys understand the technical aspects of these cases and how to hold negligent motorists, maintenance providers and other responsible parties accountable.

Contact our office today to request a free consultation or complete our simple case evaluation form to discover how we can help you move forward after a devastating accident.

Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results. Call: (817) 920-9000 today.