Who is liable for a tire blowout crash? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Tire blowout crashes can be frightening and dangerous events on the road, often leading to serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Determining liability becomes a crucial aspect of the legal process when such an incident occurs. Liability for a tire blowout crash can be complex, as it involves various factors and parties.

Driver Liability

The primary responsibility for the safe operation of a vehicle lies with the driver. Therefore, in most cases, the driver will be held liable to some extent if a tire blowout crash occurs. Drivers are expected to maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition and conduct routine inspections to ensure that their tires are properly inflated, have adequate tread, and are in good overall condition. Failing to do so may result in negligence on the part of the driver.

Additionally, drivers are expected to react appropriately when a tire blowout happens. Panicking or making sudden, erratic maneuvers can exacerbate the situation and contribute to the crash’s severity. Therefore, the driver’s actions after the blowout can also impact liability.

Vehicle Owner Liability

In cases where the driver is not the vehicle’s owner, the owner may also share liability. If the owner was aware of or should have been aware of tire-related issues but failed to address them, they may be held responsible for the consequences. This applies particularly if the owner neglected maintenance, such as not replacing worn-out tires or ignoring warning signs of tire problems.

Tire Manufacturer Liability

Tire blowouts can sometimes be attributed to manufacturing defects or design flaws in the tires themselves. In such cases, the tire manufacturer may be held liable for the crash. If it can be proven that the tire had a manufacturing defect or a design flaw that caused the blowout, the manufacturer may be required to compensate the victims for their injuries and damages.

Maintenance and Repair Shop Liability

In some situations, tire blowouts occur due to errors or negligence by a repair shop or service center during tire installation or maintenance. If it can be demonstrated that improper installation or negligent maintenance contributed to the blowout, the shop or service center may share liability for the crash.

Third-Party Liability

Sometimes, external factors can lead to tire blowouts and subsequent accidents. For example, if road debris or potholes cause a blowout, the liability may shift to a third party, such as a construction company responsible for road maintenance or a trucking company that dropped debris on the road. In such cases, establishing liability may involve a more complex legal process.

Call Our Office for Legal Assistance

Determining liability for a tire blowout crash can be a multifaceted process considering various factors. The specific circumstances of each case will dictate the allocation of liability. To navigate these complex legal matters, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Virginia Beach personal injury attorney who can assess the details and advocate for the rights of those involved in the accident. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that responsibility is appropriately assigned to compensate victims and promote road safety.

If you’ve been injured in a crash, contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp today to schedule a free consultation.

 

RELATED CONTENT