Tire blowouts are a dangerous occurrence for the driver and all those around them on the road. According to the NTHSA at least nine percent of drivers have at least one bald tire on their car that has the potential to blow out.
Motorists who choose to drive on tires that are bald or under-inflated take the chance at experiencing injury and death.
However, there are other causes of blowouts as well. For instance, a defective rim may cut into the side of the tire or allow the bead to break and the tire to slip from the rim. Another cause is low air pressure, and there can even be defects in the tires that can be traced to the manufacturer and lead to a product liability lawsuit.
What should a driver do when they are on the road and a tire blows out? The first thing to know is that when a tire blows it is often a surprise to the driver and one must be mentally prepared and able to control your impulses.
In this way you will be better able to protect your automobile and passengers. First, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel holding it with both hands and keeping the car straight on the road.
Next ease your foot onto the brake pedal and begin to slow. Hit your turn signal to let the drivers around you know your intentions. Carefully drift to the side of the road and pull off. Turn on your hazard lights and call roadside assistance or change the tire yourself. If you have flares or warning markers - be sure to use them.
Consider making regular tire checkups a part of your maintenance routine.
If you have had a tire blow out that lead to serious injury or the loss of a loved one and want to talk with a personal injury lawyer contact the Baumgartner Law Firm.
