Driving requires you to be alert at all times. When you’re behind the wheel, you must be able to focus on the task at hand, whether it’s monitoring your speed, turning left at a light, or treading through harsh weather conditions. Unfortunately, no one can anticipate the different scenarios that may cause an accident to occur, one of them being defective tires.
When a tire is defective, a number of safety and reliability issues can arise. Defective tires can cause tread separation, loss of air pressure, and accelerated wear and tear—all of which can lead to a tire blowout that is often followed by a car accident. Of those involved in the 78,000 tire blowout accidents that occur annually, thousands of victims suffer catastrophic and sometimes fatal injuries. When an accident is caused by a defective tire, it is important to establish liability for the accident caused by a defective product.
If you or someone you care about was hurt in a defective tire car accident in Southeastern Pennsylvania, your only hope of fair compensation may be bringing a lawsuit against the responsible party for your physical and psychological damages. Victims may file various claims, including a defective tire lawsuit, to seek compensation for their losses. The following information will help you determine who may be liable for a defective tire car accident.
Understanding the details of a tire defect case is crucial for determining liability.
Defective Tires and Accident Risks
Tires are the most essential but overlooked car part. Because tires maintain continual contact with the road, the importance of tire maintenance can’t be overstated. Defective tire accidents occur more frequently than they should, causing just as many fatalities as distracted driving accidents. Tread separation and loss of air pressure are common issues, and flaws in tire design or inherent design defects can contribute to these failures. Examining tire design is crucial when investigating the causes of tire-related accidents.
Tire failure, whether due to underinflation, overinflation, or wear and tear, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle, swerve into traffic, or end up off the road. A sudden loss of air pressure or control can quickly lead to accidents. Depending on the severity of the defective tire car accident, those involved may endure significant property damage and severe head, neck, or back injuries.
Inadequate warnings or instructions—known as marketing defects—can also play a role in tire-related accidents.
Defective Tire Car Accident and Product Liability Issues
Defective tire car accidents don’t just happen by chance. Typically, they occur when a tire is not manufactured or designed correctly. A vehicle owner may file a product liability claim against the tire manufacturer, designer, or seller if they can prove that the product was unreasonably dangerous because of poor manufacturing, faulty design, the use of low-grade materials, or improper installation. In some cases, the product may have been mishandled by third parties, such as a distribution center or car dealership. Establishing the party responsible and proving fault are key steps in the legal process to ensure proper compensation and accountability.
Regardless of the flaw, if the tire is not fit for safe vehicle operation and someone is seriously injured or wrongfully killed as a result, all parties in the distribution channel must be identified and investigated. In these cases, various parties may share liability for the accident, including manufacturers, retailers, and maintenance providers.
Any party found negligent in the process may be held responsible for damages.
Identifying Liable Parties in Defective Tire Accidents
When a defective tire accident occurs, determining who is responsible is a critical step in pursuing compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Tire defect accidents can result from a range of issues, including manufacturing defects, design flaws, and improper installation. Because of this, several potentially liable parties may be involved, each playing a unique role in the chain of events that led to the accident.
Tire manufacturers are often at the center of defective tire lawsuits, especially when a manufacturing defect is to blame. These defects can arise during the production process, such as when substandard materials are used or quality control is lacking. A tire blowout or tread separation caused by these issues can lead to devastating consequences, including severe injuries or even fatalities. In such cases, the tire manufacturer may be held strictly liable for the resulting damages.
Vehicle manufacturers can also be responsible if a design defect in the vehicle itself contributes to the tire malfunction. For example, a poorly designed suspension system or wheel assembly may place undue stress on the tires, increasing the risk of tire failures. When a design flaw in the vehicle leads to a tire defect accident, the vehicle manufacturer may be held accountable for the injuries and property damage that result.
Maintenance providers, such as tire shops and mechanics, have a duty to ensure that tires are properly installed and maintained. Improper installation—like failing to tighten lug nuts, using the wrong type of tire, or neglecting to inspect for sidewall failures—can all contribute to accidents caused by defective tires. If a maintenance provider’s negligence leads to a tire malfunction, they may be considered a liable party in your claim.
Trucking companies are another group that can be held liable, particularly in accidents involving commercial vehicles. These companies are responsible for regular maintenance and inspection of their fleet’s tires. Failing to address tire defects or ignoring signs of wear can result in catastrophic tire blowouts and serious injuries on the road.
Identifying all responsible parties requires a thorough investigation. This process often involves gathering evidence from the accident scene, inspecting the vehicle and tires, reviewing maintenance records, and consulting with experts. In many cases, more than one party may share liability—for instance, a tire manufacturer for a defective product and a maintenance provider for improper installation.
Because of the complexity of these cases, seeking legal assistance is essential. An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence, determine liability, and build a strong personal injury lawsuit. With the right legal support, you can pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and ongoing care.
Understanding who can be held liable in a defective tire accident empowers you to take action and seek the fair compensation you deserve. By holding all responsible parties accountable, you not only protect your own rights but also help improve vehicle safety for others on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a defective tire accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation and explore your legal options.
Can Drivers Be Held Liable for a Defective Tire Car Accident?
While manufacturers, product designers, and others involved in distributing and selling tires play a significant role in tire safety, drivers can neglect critical steps in maintaining tires. The driver is responsible for ensuring that tires are properly maintained and safe for use, as failure to do so can lead to accidents and potential liability. Drivers must not only follow the rules of the road but also maintain and inspect their vehicles frequently. Proper inspections and regular maintenance allow drivers to document both noticeable and hidden tire defects.
In addition, drivers are legally obligated not to drive their car if there are known defects. Although this seems like common sense, many drivers feel like they have no other option but to drive with defective tires. Taking chances like this is irresponsible and places others who share the road in danger. When drivers fail to uphold their duty of care on the road, they may have to take the fall for the negligent misconduct that led to their own or someone else’s injuries.
Southeastern Pennsylvania Defective Tire Lawyers You Can Trust
When you’re driving and your tire or someone else’s tire suddenly blows, it’s critical that you remain calm and get to safety. If you’re unable to do so and an accident arises, concentrate on receiving the emergency medical care and assistance you need. While you look after yourself, the defective tire lawyers at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. will look after your best interests. The firm is dedicated to helping victims of defective tire accidents by providing support and guidance to secure the compensation they deserve.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, & Gifford P.C. in Southeastern Pennsylvania, our legal team is relentless in our pursuit of justice for those who have been wrongfully injured. We will work to decipher the evidence and determine the appropriate parties liable for your accident and injuries. Enlisting the help of our reputable firm means having your case backed by over 270 cumulative years of acquired experience, resources, and knowledge. Call (215) 822-7575 or complete a confidential contact form to schedule a consultation today.
Established in 1952 by Irwin S. Rubin, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. boasts over 65 years of experience serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. Renowned for its commitment to ethical representation, the firm has garnered prestigious accolades, including being named the “Best Law Firm” for its outstanding legal defense work by U.S. News & World Report. Their team of seasoned attorneys, recognized as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, brings unparalleled expertise to a wide range of legal matters, ensuring exceptional representation for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
August 15, 2025
