Here are some signs you have a defective tire. Since your tire should be your only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, a defective tire can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and be involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. Checking your tires regularly is something that you should incorporate into your schedule.

According to TreadHunter, tire failure accounts for as many as 11,000 car crashes each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. There are four major things you can look for to determine whether your tire is at risk of being defective and blowing out, causing an accident.

Wear on the Tread

It is important to identify whether or not your tire has significant tread damage. The majority of modern tires have wear bars that will show you when the wear of your tire has decreased too quickly. Individuals with new tires may not realize that a defective tire’s tread wear can decrease significantly after just a little bit of driving. This is why it’s beneficial to take a look at your tread at least once a month. If your dealership or mechanic tells you that the tread is looking worn, this is a condition worth paying attention to.

Tire Pressure

If your tire is having difficulty keeping the right amount of air pressure, you are at risk of having a flat tire or other accident. Make sure you consult with the tire manufacturer in the event that it could be a defective product putting you at risk.

Vibration

If you are hearing heavy thumping or vibration while you’re driving the vehicle, listen to determine whether or not it sounds like it’s coming from under the seats. If your rear tires are out of balance, you might hear this sound and you may need to consult with your mechanic. If the steering wheel appears to be vibrating, suspension issues may be the cause. Anything other than a smooth ride is a good opportunity to consult with a mechanic.

Gouges, Cracks or Bulges

If a tire deflates suddenly, it will bulge at the sides. This is a sign of a slow air leak or low tire pressure. In any case, you should consult with your mechanic as soon as possible to avoid an accident. If a defective tire has caused a major car accident in which you or other individuals have sustained injuries, you may need to consult with an Arizona personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you or someone you know wishes to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney regarding Signs You Have a  Defective Tire, or other personal injury matters, call 480.461.5300. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.