Recent Tire Recalls

Tire recalls are a serious matter, and families in Florida and across the country need to be aware of these recalls to protect themselves. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that the agency recalled more than 60 million tires since its inception. These defective tires can cause car crashes and serious injuries. Although there are legal protections for victims after car crashes, families can save themselves from the need to take legal action by being aware if their tires are recalled.

Why are defective tires dangerous?

Defective tires are dangerous because drivers can lose control during a tire failure, and defects cause tire failures. There are many defects that can cause serious accidents, including: 

• tire detreading;
• bead failures;
• tread separation;
• tire blow-outs;
• tire shredding;
• sidewall zipper failures;
• deficient skim stock; and
• failed tire adhesion.

These defects may occur when people drive at a high speeds, further increasing the risk of serious injury.

What are some examples of recent recalls?

NHTSA maintains a database of all tire recalls. Drivers can search by their tires’ brand, make and model numbers to see if their tires are subject to any current recalls. Families also can subscribe to NHTSA’s email list or to the agency’s RSS feed to receive daily updates on tire recalls. The website has online complaint forms to file if drivers suspect a tire defect.

One of the most recent recalls is the recall of Michelin LTX M/S tires sizes LT225/75R16 and 115/112R LRE. The recall covers tires manufactured between January 10, 2010 and June 23, 2012. These tires may exhibit tread separation, which can lead to loss of pressure, blowouts and increased risk of an accident. Tread separation happens when the tire tread begins to fray from the tire body. The recall was reported in December 2013.

A couple of months earlier, NHTSA recalled Yokohama’s 7.5R16 RY215 tires manufactured between January 1, 2006 and August 1, 2011. These tires didn’t include the federally required tire markings that inform consumers about the maximum weight level the tires can handle. Exceeding this weight level can lead to an increased risk of accidents as well.

Legal Impact of Defective Tires

Defective tires fall under the legal theory of product liability. Manufacturers may be liable for their tires, regardless of whether they were negligent when making the tires.

There are a few types of product liability claims. Manufacturing defects involve problems with the product’s construction. Design defects are mistakes in the product’s engineering, and disclosure defects happen when the company fails to warn consumers about product limitations and risks. NHTSA may issue recalls related to all three of these defects.

Plaintiffs can file either personal injury lawsuits or wrongful death lawsuits under products liability. Preparing and filing a defective tires-related lawsuit can be a challenge even for the most informed drivers. They may be better served hiring a lawyer to look out for their best interests.

Chalik & Chalik is a family-based law firm committed to protecting families from product defects through legal representation, litigation and public advocacy. Contact our office at 855-529-0269 to schedule a consultation about your case.