It doesn't matter what type of car you drive, you rely on your tires to get you from point A to point B in a safe and efficient manner.
If you're riding on a defective tire (or tires), you're taking a big risk with your health and well-being. Here are some of the most common signs of tire failure:
- Uneven tread wear: Regularly checking how your tires are wearing will tell you if this is a problem.
- Cracking in the sidewalls: This is a major concern, as sidewall cracks can lead to a blowout. Keep a close eye out for this problem.
- Bulges: It doesn't matter if it's big or small, any size bulge is a sign of trouble.
- Excessive vibration: It's not always something you see that points toward a tire defect. If you feel a vibration when driving and it can't be attributed to the vehicle itself, turn your attention to the tires.
- Excessive tread wear: Although tires are expected to wear over time, this shouldn't happen quickly. If you notice your new tires are looking worn after a few months, have your mechanic take a closer look.
Tire failure is extremely dangerous, as anything that goes wrong when moving at high speed greatly increases the chance of an accident.
If you're involved in an accident as the result of tire failure or a tire defect, collect as much evidence as possible. For example, pictures of the tire can go a long way in strengthening your case. From there, you'll want to learn more about your legal rights and if you can hold the manufacturer responsible for their negligence.