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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.