Truck tire blowouts can quickly cause a catastrophic accident. When the tire blows, it can cause the truck and trailer to abecome unstable, leading to a crash.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an 18-wheeler tire blowout accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. However, truck insurance companies and defense attorneys work hard to deny or devalue your claim. You need the assistance of an experienced truck accident attorney in Chicago to protect your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.
At Meyers & Flowers, our Chicago personal injury attorneys have helped to secure over $6 billion for our clients, and we are committed to helping you recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
Call (630) 280-3771 or complete the short form on our contact page to schedule a free consultation.
Why Tire Blowout Accidents Happen
Tire blowout accidents happen when a tire suddenly loses pressure. The tire often begins to fall apart, leaving strips of rubber along the road. When this happens, the truck becomes unstable and is challenging to maneuver. Drivers may lose control of the 18-wheeler and crash.
Common causes of 18-wheeler tire blowout accidents include:
- Low tire pressure. Underinflated tires are a common cause of tire blowouts in 18-wheelers. Truck tires have a recommended pressure level for operating efficiently. Tire pressure gradually lowers over time, so drivers must check pressure at regular intervals to help ensure safety.
- Overloaded trucks. No matter how good a tire is, if it is carrying a heavier load than it is designed to take, it is likely to blow out. Although the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates the maximum weight for 18-wheelers, some drivers violate these regulations, putting themselves and other motorists at risk.
- Poor road conditions. Potholes and debris in the road can cause tire blowouts. These can be difficult to avoid when traveling at high speeds on the road.
- Manufacturing defects. Defective tires may blow out during operation, potentially causing an accident.
- Poor maintenance. If the driver or trucking company fails to maintain their truck, including its tires, accidents are more likely to occur.
Determining the cause of your accident is vital to the success of your claim. At Meyers & Flowers, our truck accident lawyers possess the resources and expertise to investigate your accident thoroughly, identifying all potential causes and liable parties.
Proving Negligence in 18-Wheeler Tire Blowout Accidents
Most cases involving 18-wheeler tire blowout accidents are based on negligence. To be successful in a negligence claim, you must establish the existence of four elements.
First, you must prove that the defendant owed you a duty of care. Next, you must prove that the defendant breached their duty of care. Then, you must show that the defendant’s duty of care caused your accident and injuries. Finally, you must establish that you suffered actual damages caused by the defendant’s breach of duty.
Depending on the cause of your accident, the parties liable, and the specific facts of your case, we may use various pieces of evidence to prove your claim. Some common types of evidence used to prove negligence include photographs, video footage, driver logs, maintenance reports, eyewitness testimony, and expert witness testimony. We will also likely use medical records, employment and wage records, as well as proof of other expenses and lost income.
At Meyers & Flowers, our skilled truck accident lawyers carefully choose the best evidence to support your claim to help you recover maximum compensation for your damages.
Do I Have a Good 18-Wheeler Tire Blowout Accident Case?
If you were injured in an 18-wheeler accident that was caused by a tire blowout, you likely have a valid claim.
No attorney can guarantee that you will recover any amount of compensation. However, once we have thoroughly evaluated your case, we will provide you with an estimate of what we believe to be a fair settlement of your claim.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Rights
If an 18-wheeler tire blowout accident has injured you, you should consult an experienced truck accident lawyer to determine your rights. At Meyers & Flowers, our truck accident attorneys have decades of experience protecting the rights of injury victims and their families. We can help you secure the compensation you deserve for your damages.
Call (630) 280-3771 or complete the short form on our contact page to schedule a free consultation.