Tire blowouts involving commercial vehicles are some of the most dangerous events on Florida’s highways. Trucks, buses, and delivery vans are heavy and difficult to control even under normal conditions. When a tire suddenly fails, the driver can lose control in an instant, often leading to multi-vehicle collisions.
For accident victims, the aftermath can include severe injuries and questions about who should be held responsible. Read on for more information, and reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Fort Myers for a free consultation if you need help with a claim.
Florida Law and Commercial Vehicle Safety
Florida law requires all drivers, including those operating commercial vehicles, to maintain their vehicles in safe working condition. For large trucks and buses, this means complying with both state traffic rules and federal safety regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets standards for vehicle maintenance, including tire inspection, pressure checks, and replacement schedules.
Commercial carriers and drivers are expected to identify and address worn or defective tires before they ever get on the road. Failing to do so may be considered negligence. If a tire blowout leads to an accident, evidence of poor maintenance or ignored inspection records could play a central role in establishing liability.
Common Causes of Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts rarely happen without warning. In many cases, they can be traced back to human error, poor upkeep, or unsafe conditions. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Worn or underinflated tires that are more vulnerable to sudden failure
- Overloaded cargo that puts too much stress on the tires
- Improper installation or alignment leading to uneven wear
- Road hazards such as potholes or debris
- Manufacturing defects in the tire itself
While any one of these issues can cause a blowout, they are often preventable through proper inspection and maintenance. That is why liability often extends beyond the driver to the company responsible for operating or servicing the vehicle.
If the tire blowout accident resulted in a death of a loved one, contact our wrongful death lawyers in Fort Myers today.
Determining Liability After a Tire Blowout Truck Accident
Figuring out who is responsible for a tire blowout crash is not always straightforward. Several different parties may share legal responsibility depending on the facts of the case. These can include:
- The commercial driver, if they ignored clear signs of tire wear or failed to conduct required inspections
- The trucking or bus company, if it neglected regular maintenance or pressured drivers to stay on the road with unsafe equipment
- A maintenance provider or mechanic, if faulty repair work contributed to the blowout
- The tire manufacturer, if a design flaw or defect caused the failure
Determining liability can quickly become complex in these cases, as multiple insurance companies may be involved. A qualified personal injury lawyer can help you make the most of your claim and demand compensation from every responsible party.
Learn More About Your Legal Options After a Tire Blowout Accident in Florida
Commercial vehicle tire blowouts can leave victims facing serious injuries and steep financial losses. If you were hurt in a crash caused by a blowout, you may be able to pursue compensation for your damages. Speaking with a lawyer is the best way to understand your rights and next steps.
Contact Garvin Injury Law today to get started with a free consultation. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our deserving clients and are ready to get to work for you next.