When you share the road with commercial vehicles like trucks and buses, you trust that their drivers will operate safely and that the trucks are well-maintained to prevent unexpected accidents. Unfortunately, when vehicle equipment suddenly fails, drivers cannot control their large loads, resulting in devastating passenger vehicle accidents.
A tire blowout is one of the most common and dangerous types of truck accidents caused by part failure. These unexpected occurrences render a large commercial vehicle like a truck nearly impossible to control, resulting in dangerous collisions with other vehicles.
Additionally, blown-out tire parts become dangerous projectiles that can go straight through another vehicle’s windshield, forcing other drivers to lose control of their vehicles and causing extensive injuries and damage to cars.
As the leading truck accident lawyer in Richmond, the Johnson Injury Firm has seen firsthand the catastrophic impact these accidents have on victims and their families. We understand that many of these incidents could be prevented with proper vehicle maintenance and by holding tire manufacturers accountable when they make defective tires.
Understanding the Dangers of Tire Blowout Truck Accidents
When a truck’s tire blows out, the consequences can be catastrophic. Due to the sudden nature of a blowout, commercial trucks quickly become uncontrollable, and their massive size and weight make them a potentially deadly hazard. Uncontrolled trucks may jackknife, roll over, or veer into other lanes of traffic, creating potentially catastrophic consequences for other motorists.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which regulates the trucking industry in the United States, tire failure contributes to approximately six percent of all truck accidents. As a central transportation hub with numerous highways and interstates, such as I-95 and I-64, Richmond is no stranger to the dangers of accidents caused by commercial vehicles experiencing tire blowouts.
As the most trusted Richmond tire blowout truck accident lawyers, we understand the dramatic impact truck accidents have on victims and their families. We offer compassionate legal representation to help you recover and handle the complex legal details to ensure you receive the compensation you need to move forward after an accident.
Common Causes of Tire Blowouts in Trucks
As experienced truck accident attorneys in Richmond, we have successfully represented numerous clients whose lives were disrupted by truck accidents caused by tire blowouts. We know many of these crashes were caused by negligence by the truck driver, trucking company, or tire manufacturer.
Common causes of tire blowouts in trucks include:
- Improper Maintenance: Trucking companies are required by federal law to provide regular inspections and maintenance to their vehicles. Companies that fail to adequately check tire pressure, tread wear, and overall conditions of their vehicle’s tires may be liable for damages in a tire blowout accident.
- Overloaded Trucks: Trucks loaded with cargo that exceeds weight capacity or is improperly loaded can put excessive pressure on tires, leading to a blowout. Material loaders may be liable for accidents involving overloaded trucks.
- Defective Tires: Tire manufacturers may be liable for damages caused by an accident if defects in the tires cause premature wear or sudden failure.
- Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads with potholes, debris, or uneven pavement can significantly damage truck tires, leading to a blowout. Government entities responsible for road maintenance can be held accountable if road conditions factor into a crash.
- Driver Negligence: If a driver fails to appropriately respond to warning signs of tire failure, including dashboard light alerts, unusual vibrations, or low tire pressure, they may be liable for a tire blowout accident.
As the leading tire blowout truck accident attorneys in Richmond, we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to determine what led to the damages you suffered. We hold all negligent parties accountable to maximize your compensation following an accident.
Common Injuries From Tire Blowout Truck Accidents
As your tire blowout truck accident lawyers in Richmond, we have seen the devastation victims face following a truck accident. These incidents are particularly severe, with life-changing outcomes for victims due to their sudden nature coupled with the size and weight of commercial vehicles compared to passenger vehicles.
We have successfully represented truck accident victims who experienced injuries including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Truck accident victims often suffer severe head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and concussions.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Victims may suffer severe injuries to their necks, backs, and spinal cords, including full or partial paralysis.
- Broken Bones: The crushing impact of trucks against passenger vehicles often causes broken bones and fractures across the body, including arms, legs, and ribs.
- Internal Injuries: The incredible mass of a truck often causes significant and life-threatening injuries to internal organs.
- Severe Burns and Lacerations: Truck accident victims frequently suffer severe burns and lacerations that can result in permanent disfigurement.
We understand that the physical injuries suffered in a tire blowout truck accident are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the damages victims face. Significant financial burdens from necessary medical care, rehabilitation, and lost wages accompany these severe physical and emotional harm.
Our team is driven by the desire to help victims achieve maximum compensation that accounts for all damages suffered in an accident.
Virginia Laws for Tire Blowout Truck Accidents
Virginia has several relevant laws to protect victims in tire blowout truck accidents. These regulations are not only intended to protect motorists, but they also provide the legal framework for cases stemming from these incidents. Skilled truck accident attorneys near me can help you navigate the complex legal details following an accident.
Important state laws for tire blowout truck accidents include:
- Contributory Negligence Rule: Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, meaning that if you are found to be even one percentage at fault for causing an accident, you may be prohibited from recovering compensation. This regulation underscores the importance of partnering with trusted tire blowout truck accident lawyers in Richmond to protect your rights.
- Statute of Limitations: Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injuries requires claims to be filed within two years of the accident date. This deadline highlights the need to contact Richmond tire blowout truck accident attorneys as soon as possible following a crash to ensure you have ample time to prepare a solid claim.
- Compensation Available: Victims of tire blowout truck accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation for damages suffered, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and punitive damages.
Our team deeply understands the relevant state and federal laws that will impact your claim. We are committed to helping you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve following a tire blowout truck accident.
How the Johnson Injury Firm Helps Accident Victims
When the victim of a tire blowout truck accident victim put their trust in us to protect their legal rights, we take great pride in achieving justice on their behalf. Our dedicated team leaves no stone unturned in building a strong case that will position your claim for success.
We provide personalized support for each client, offer compassionate guidance, and are always available to answer any questions. Our comprehensive approach starts with getting to know the client personally and understanding how the accident impacted their life.
We leverage our experience and resources to thoroughly investigate your accident, carefully analyzing evidence such as maintenance records, driver logs, and tire inspection reports to determine the cause of the blowout. We determine which party’s negligence contributed to your accident and pursue maximum compensation to cover your damages.
We have outstanding experience earning favorable outcomes for our clients through negotiation with insurance companies and litigation in the courtroom when necessary. Our track record provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a tire blowout truck accident, call us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
