Tire Bubbles

Most car owners don’t check their tires as diligently or frequently as they should. And if they do, they might not know what to look for, or what noticeable features on a tire are potential danger signs. One thing that all car owners should be aware of, though, is what it means when your car’s tires start to bubble.

What’s a sidewall bubble? 

First of all, the sidewall of your tire is simply the side of your tire, and the place where all your tire’s markings are contained. A bubble in the sidewall is exactly what it sounds like, a visible pocket of air or bulge that’s formed on the side of the tire.

Causes of Sidewall Tire Bubbles 

Like most bubbles, a tire sidewall bubble is caused by air that’s not supposed to be there. If damage to any tire layers occurs, air can permeate through the layers, making a home for itself within the sidewall. Sometimes, tire material separation can be caused by normal wear-and-tear of a tire; other times, the separation may be caused by a manufacturing or design defect.

Are bubbles in the sidewall of a tire dangerous? 

It is essential that you understand that a bubble in the sidewall is dangerous. An air bubble may grow bigger, and can cause the tire to fail while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 11,000 crashes a year are caused by tire failure. The faster you drive and the more impacts that the tire encounters (like potholes or bumps in the road), the more likely it is that a tire with a sidewall bubble will fail.

What should I do if I notice a bubble in my tire? 

If you notice a bubble in your car’s tire, the first thing you should do is refrain from driving the car. Next, you should have it inspected immediately. Damage to tire layers that cause sidewall bubbles cannot typically be repaired, so you will have to replace your tire immediately. If your tires are old, it is wise to replace the other tires during this time as well for optimal safety.

How a Florida Tire Lawyer Can Help You 

In most cases, sidewall tire bubbles form because the tires have gone too long without being replaced. In some cases, though, the bubble may have been caused by a manufacturing or design defect. In fact, it’s not unusual for millions of tires to be recalled in a single year. In 2013, Michelin alone recalled 1.2 million tires.

If you believe that you tires are defective, and if the defect has caused an accident, get a tire lawyer on your side to help you exercise your rights and recover compensation for your damages. At Chalik & Chalik, our attorneys can help you. Call us today at 855-529-0269 or contact us online to set up your consultation.