3 FAQs About Car Accident Claims Involving Tire Blowouts

Modern tires are able to withstand far more wear and tear than their predecessors, but blowouts can still occur—and they often cause devastating accidents. In 2017 alone, nearly 750 traffic fatalities were attributed to collisions caused by tire-related issues. Those who are lucky enough to survive such wrecks are likely to sustain debilitating injuries.

Fortunately, accident victims or their surviving loved ones may be entitled to compensation for healthcare costs, lost income, and other damages; however, recovering damages after a tire-related crash can be complicated. There are several parties who might be liable, and even with strong evidence, the opposing party might still dispute your claim.

Read on to learn the answers to a few FAQs about tire blowout accident claims:

1. Who Might Be Liable for a Collision Caused by a Tire Blowout?

When a tire blowout causes an accident, there are several parties that could be liable (or share liability) for the resulting damages. Those parties include:

• The tire manufacturer;
• The mechanic who rotated, replaced, or filled the tire;
• The municipality responsible for maintaining the road where the blowout occurred;
• The owner of the vehicle that had the blowout; or
• Passing motorists or passengers who tossed debris onto the roadway.

2. How Can I Prove Liability for a Tire Blowout Accident?

As with any car accident claim, the strongest evidence of liability will depend on the circumstances surrounding the wreck. Generally speaking, valuable evidence might include:

• The tire itself;
• Blueprints or schematics of the tire’s design;
• Recall data or previous complaints regarding the tire;
• Vehicle maintenance records;
• Dash cam footage or surveillance recordings of the accident;
• Eyewitness testimony;
• Statements from accident reconstruction and tire experts; and
• Photographs of the road conditions where the wreck occurred.

3. What Kinds of Damages Can I Pursue Following a Tire Blowout Accident?

If you were seriously injured in a tire blowout accident through no fault of your own, you have the right to pursue compensation for the resulting economic and non-economic damages. In the state of Florida, potentially recoverable damages in car accident cases include:

• Emergency medical expenses;
• Anticipated healthcare bills;
• Home care;
• Ongoing rehabilitation;
• Property damage;
• Alternative transportation;
• Lost wages and benefits;
• Loss of future earning capacity;
• Home and/or vehicle modifications necessary for accommodating any new disabilities;
• Child care;
• Domestic help;
• Emotional distress;
• Loss of enjoyment in life; and
• Pain and suffering.

If your spouse has suffered the loss of love, companionship, intimacy, and affection because of your injuries, he or she may also be entitled to loss of consortium damages.

Speak with a Florida Car Accident Attorney Today

At Donaldson & Weston, we have a tireless commitment to the emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing of our clients. Our attorneys understand the devastating toll that unanticipated injuries can take on accident victims and their families, and they will do everything in their power to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Call 772-266-5555 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Florida.