Every year, thousands of car accidents occur due to defective tires, leading to severe injuries, costly damages, and even fatalities. In Sonoma, where scenic roads and varying weather conditions can put extra stress on tires, a tire failure can be especially dangerous. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a defective tire, Flahavan Law is here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Defective Tires Cause Accidents
Tires are a critical safety component of any vehicle, and when they fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. Common causes of defective tire accidents include:
- Manufacturing Defects – Poor workmanship, faulty materials, or design flaws can lead to tread separation, blowouts, or sidewall failures.
- Inadequate Testing – Some tires are rushed to market without proper safety testing, increasing the risk of failure.
- Improper Labeling or Warnings – If a tire lacks proper warnings about load capacity or speed ratings, drivers may unknowingly put themselves at risk.
- Aging Tires – Even unused tires degrade over time, becoming brittle and prone to failure.
When a defective tire fails, it can cause:
- Blowouts at high speeds, leading to loss of control
- Tread separations, causing sudden skidding
- Sidewall ruptures, resulting in rapid air loss
- Rollover accidents, especially in SUVs and trucks
Who Is Liable in a Defective Tire Accident?
Determining liability in a defective tire case can be complex. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Tire Manufacturers – If the tire was defectively designed or manufactured, the company could be held accountable.
- Distributors & Retailers – Businesses that sell faulty tires without proper inspections may share liability.
- Vehicle Manufacturers – If the car came with defective tires, the automaker could also be responsible.
- Mechanics or Repair Shops – Improper installation or failure to warn about tire wear could make them liable.
At Flahavan Law, we investigate every angle to ensure the right parties are held responsible for your injuries and losses.
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Common Injuries from Defective Tire Accidents
A sudden tire failure can lead to devastating injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from collisions or rollovers
- Spinal cord damage, potentially causing paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures from impact
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Fatalities in severe cases
If you’ve suffered any of these injuries due to a defective tire, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)
Why Choose Flahavan Law for Your Defective Tire Case?
At Flahavan Law, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a serious accident. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to fighting for Sonoma residents who have been harmed by defective tires. Here’s how we can help:
- Free Case Evaluation – We’ll review your case at no cost and advise you on the best legal options.
- Thorough Investigation – We work with tire experts, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to build a strong case.
- Aggressive Negotiation – We won’t settle for less than you deserve from insurance companies or manufacturers.
- Trial-Ready Representation – If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we’re prepared to take your case to court.
What to Do After a Defective Tire Accident in Sonoma
If you suspect a defective tire caused your crash, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms appear later.
- Preserve Evidence – Keep the damaged tire, take photos of the accident scene, and save all medical records.
- Report the Accident – File a police report and notify the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) if the tire defect could affect others.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone – They may try to minimize your claim.
- Contact Flahavan Law Immediately – The sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.