Legal Practice Areas
Let's win together
Please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days. Or just call us now.
Tire Defects
Like many things on a vehicle, tires require attention and maintenance to keep things maneuvering safely and properly. While some tire issues may be caused by driver negligence, there are many cases of accidents caused by defective tires.
Tire Blowouts and Tread Separation
Tire tread separation is an unfortunate defect of the steel-belted radial technology used in tires for today’s passenger vehicles and light trucks. Recent examples include the Goodyear Load Range E tires on 15-passenger vans, Firestone Steeltex tires on Ford Excursions, Continental General tires on Lincoln Navigators, and Firestone ATX and Wilderness tires on Ford Explorers.
Tread separation may lead to dire results such as accidents due to loss of control after a tire blowout.
History and Overview of Tire Defects
Many drivers are familiar with the notorious Ford/Firestone tire argument – one of the largest tire recalls in history. By the end of the 20th century, Ford Motor Company managed to install more than 14 million Bridgestone/Firestone ATX, ATX II, and Wilderness AT tires on their Ford Explorer and other cars. Numerous reports of fatalities and crashes boosted an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, uncovering defects in the Firestone tires that had contributed to more than 300 collisions at the time.
The defect largely caused tread separation, which resulted in rollover accidents involving Ford Explorers. In the end, Ford recalled all 14 million tires. The booming scandal over the recalls was largely covered by the media, highlighting the recall, the money involved, the various class action lawsuits, and the end of the relationship between Ford and Firestone.
Vehicle Defect Recalls
One of the more common vehicle defect problems for the general public involves safety recalls of motor vehicles. These recalls are, in most cases, investigated by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the vehicle manufacturers themselves in response to discovered defects in the vehicle or its components.
Investigation of Tire Defects
If you or your loved ones have reason to believe your accident was a result of tire defects, do not delay in seeking an experienced personal injury attorney to help you investigate the accident and determine if you are owed compensation.
Legal Practice Areas
Let's win together
Please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days. Or just call us now.
Tire Defects and Blowouts in Houston, TX
When defective tires lead to serious accidents, victims deserve strong legal representation. At Gomez Law Firm, our Houston tire defect attorneys hold manufacturers and negligent parties accountable for dangerous product failures that cause injuries or death.
Tire failures such as blowouts, tread separation, and detreading can result in catastrophic rollover crashes and loss of control, especially at high speeds. Whether the fault lies in poor manufacturing, defective design, or improper servicing, we can help you seek justice and compensation.
Common Types of Tire Defects
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts can occur due to under-inflation, manufacturing flaws, or overuse. These rapid failures often cause vehicles to veer off the road or roll over.
Tread Separation
Tire tread separation is an unfortunate defect of the steel-belted radial technology used in tires for today’s passenger vehicles and light trucks. This issue can lead to loss of control, especially at highway speeds.
Recent examples of affected tires include:
- Goodyear Load Range E tires on 15-passenger vans
- Firestone Steeltex tires on Ford Excursions
- Continental General tires on Lincoln Navigators
- Firestone ATX and Wilderness tires on Ford Explorers
Manufacturing or Design Defects
Some tires leave the factory with hidden internal weaknesses. These defects can remain unnoticed until a catastrophic failure happens on the road.
Improper Installation or Service
Shops that improperly mount tires or ignore clear signs of wear may be liable for resulting crashes. This is especially critical for commercial vehicles.
Vehicle Recall & Safety Investigations
Vehicle recalls due to tire defects are typically investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the vehicle manufacturers themselves. Affected consumers should always seek legal representation to understand their rights and compensation options.
High-Profile Tire Defect Cases
The infamous Ford-Firestone tire recall was one of the largest in U.S. history. More than 14 million Bridgestone/Firestone tires were recalled after numerous crashes, often involving Ford Explorers, that resulted in over 300 deaths. The cause? Tread separation leading to vehicle rollovers. The recall was a landmark moment in auto defect litigation
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you or a loved one were injured due to a defective tire, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or wrongful death damages
- Property damage
Our experienced team will investigate thoroughly, working with engineers, forensic experts, and accident reconstruction specialists to build a strong claim.
Why Choose Gomez Law Firm?
- 20+ Years of Experience in Personal Injury
- Board Certified Attorney Jorge L. Gomez
- Direct access to your attorney—not just a case manager
- Millions Recovered for Accident Victims
- Houston-based and Bilingual Legal Support
Client Testimonials
Related Case Result
$2.5 Million Recovered – Tire Blowout Wrongful Death Case
Our client’s family member was killed when a defective tire caused a deadly rollover. We proved manufacturer negligence and secured justice for the family.
FAQs About Tire Defect Lawsuits
Signs include tread separation, bulging, premature wear, or a sudden blowout. We can arrange expert inspections and analysis.
Yes. Under Texas law, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
Tire manufacturers, car manufacturers, tire retailers, and service centers may all be liable depending on the defect and circumstances.
Seek medical attention, document the scene, preserve the tire and vehicle, and call our firm immediately for a free case evaluation.
Internal Resources
- Truck Accidents
- Commercial Vehicle Accidents
- Unsafe Lane Change Accidents
- Rear-End Truck Accidents
Let’s Win Together
Timing is critical. Speak directly with a board-certified Houston injury lawyer. No fee unless we win.
📞 Call us at (713) 868-5528
📍 1613 Witte Road, Houston, TX 77080
🖊️ Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been injured in a tire blowout or defective tire accident, time is critical. Let the Houston tire defect attorneys at Gomez Law Firm fight for the compensation you deserve.
