Tire Defect Attorney Rick Alvis

Tires are a vehicle’s only point of contact with the road, making their integrity crucial for safe handling and braking. Unfortunately, defective tires can lead to serious accidents, including blowouts, tread separation, and loss of control. When a tire fails due to defects, the consequences can be catastrophic, especially at high speeds.

With over 40 years of experience seeking justice and compensation for those injured due to tire defects and tire failures, tire defect attorney Rick Alvis has extensive experience in product liability cases, including those related to automobile crashworthiness and tire failure. His dedication to representing plaintiffs in civil litigation ensures that his clients receive top-notch legal representation.

About Defective Tire Attorney Rick Alvis

Victims have the right to seek compensation when a tire defect leads to an accident. Birmingham defective tire attorney Rick Alvis works tirelessly to prove that the tire was indeed defective and that the defect directly caused the failure. We hold manufacturers accountable for their negligence, ensuring that victims receive the justice they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective tire, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us fight for your rights and seek the compensation you need to recover from your tire-related injuries.

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What are the most common tire defects by manufacturers?

Tire defects can pose serious risks to drivers and passengers. Manufacturers may inadvertently produce tires with defects that compromise safety. Here are some common tire defects associated with manufacturing and design:

Tire Tread Separation: This is the most frequent defect in steel-belted radial tires.
Belt Wedge Flaws: The belt wedge, a rubber component between steel belts, prevents them from rubbing against each other. Poorly designed belt wedges fail to handle strain and heat, resulting in belt detachment and premature tire failure.
Cap Ply Defects: The cap ply, positioned between the tread and the top of the belt, enhances belt edge durability. Its absence, especially in high-speed or high-performance tires, increases the risk of belt separation.
Skim Stock Flaws: Skim stock, a rubber compound containing steel wires or fabric reinforcement, plays a crucial role. Inadequate use during tire design leads to a high rate of tread separation.
Inner Liner Design Flaws: The inner liner acts as an inner tube, preventing air escape and moisture entry.

Manufacturers must adhere to safety standards set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Remember to regularly inspect your tires and replace them when necessary to ensure safe driving on the road.

What are some facts about tire failures?

Some facts about tire failures:

More than 11,000 crashes in the United States a year, at least, are due to tire failure issues.
Tire defect cases can cover a multitude of potential product liability issues.
Tires can fail based upon their design, their manufacture, or the installation process.
Tire failures, blowouts, and retreads are foreseeable and preventable incidents.
Obvious tire defects may be detected with a visual or cursory surface inspection when the tire is first installed an inflated. These include bulges, lumps, cracks, and noticeable air leakage.
There can be catastrophic events when tire installers attempt to install tires on the wrong size rim. This is sometimes called a "mismatch" circumstance.
Tire tread separations can be caused by bonding problems in the tire manufacturing process, contaminants introduced into the tire during the tire making process, under-vulcanization, old ingredients, improper sized components or something as simple as air being trapped in between the layers of the tire during manufacturing.

What does a defective tire look like?

Identifying defective tires is crucial for your safety on the road. Here are some signs to watch out for:

Visual Inspection: Examine tires for:

Uneven wear: Look for tread patterns that differ significantly across the tire surface.
Cracks: Inspect sidewalls for any visible cracks.
Bulges: Check for abnormal bulges or blisters on the tire’s surface.
Embedded objects: Look for foreign objects like nails or shards that may compromise the tire’s integrity.

Unusual Vibrations: If you feel abnormal shakes or rattles while driving, it could indicate tire defects.
Loss of Air Pressure: Rapid air loss or consistently low tire pressure may signal tire flaws.
Noises: Listen for unusual sounds while driving, especially related to tire performance.

Remember to regularly inspect your tires, especially before long trips, and promptly address any signs of defects.

If you have been injured as a result of a defective tire, consult experienced tire defect attorney Rick Alvis is committed to efficiently navigating the legal landscape, working diligently to secure a fair and timely resolution for our clients in tire failure cases.