Tires may appear uncomplicated, but when they malfunction, the consequences can be severe. Defective tires have been linked to numerous collisions on California roadways. If you’ve experienced a blowout or irregular tread wear, it’s important to understand how design or manufacturing flaws might be responsible.
Common tire defects to watch for
Not all tire problems result from poor upkeep. Some arise from structural or production defects, including tread separation, compromised sidewalls, or errors during the curing process. These issues often occur without visible warning signs. A tire may seem intact, yet suddenly fail at high speeds due to poor materials, quality control lapses, or assembly mistakes.
Tread separation poses one of the most dangerous risks. It involves the detachment of the tread from the body of the tire while in motion. This imbalance can destabilize the vehicle and result in total loss of control. In many cases, faulty bonding of steel belts is the root cause.
Why defects increase crash risks
Tires are integral to vehicle handling, stability, and safety. When one fails, the vehicle’s control dynamics change instantly. A blowout at high speed can cause abrupt veering. On wet or curved roads, the risk of collision intensifies. Drivers often have minimal time to react, making these incidents especially hazardous.
A defective tire may also trigger a rollover accident, particularly in taller vehicles like SUVs or trucks. If a tire bursts or collapses, the vehicle may tip or flip. Safety systems such as traction control cannot always counteract the impact of sudden tire failure.
How to know if a tire is defective
Signs of a defect include vibrations, abnormal tread wear, or bulging sidewalls. Manufacturers occasionally issue recalls, but not all drivers receive notification. You can check your tire’s identification number (TIN) against federal databases. If a defect originated during production, responsibility does not fall on the vehicle owner.
Preventing accidents from tire issues
Inspect tires routinely for damage or wear. Replace aging tires even if tread appears intact. Stay updated on recalls and act promptly. If a tire fails unexpectedly, preserve it and record the circumstances. This evidence can demonstrate that the issue stemmed from a manufacturing flaw.