Apr 8th, 2025
Paulozzi Joseph

Tire blowouts can be sudden, frightening, and devastating. When a tire bursts at high speeds, it can cause the driver to lose control and crash into other vehicles, resulting in serious injuries and property damage. At Paulozzi LPA, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be—and we’re here to help Ohio residents understand their legal options after such an accident.

This article explores everything you need to know about car accidents caused by tire blowouts, including liability, common causes, evidence needed to prove fault, and how our firm can help you seek compensation. Whether you were the driver whose tire blew out or the victim of another person’s negligence, this guide can help clarify your next steps.

What Causes Tire Blowouts?

Tire blowouts are not always random. While they may feel unpredictable to drivers, these dangerous failures often result from preventable circumstances. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Worn-Out Tires

Bald or aging tires are more vulnerable to failure. Over time, rubber deteriorates, tread depth decreases, and the tire’s ability to grip the road weakens—making blowouts more likely.

2. Improper Inflation

Under-inflated tires cause excessive heat and friction, while over-inflated tires are more prone to bursting due to pressure. Both situations compromise the tire’s structural integrity.

3. Overloaded Vehicles

Exceeding a vehicle’s recommended weight limit puts stress on the tires, increasing the risk of blowouts. This is common in commercial vehicles, RVs, and improperly loaded personal cars.

4. Potholes and Road Hazards

Large potholes, debris, or sharp objects on Ohio’s roads can puncture tires or cause instant blowouts.

5. Manufacturing Defects

Defective tires may have design flaws or poor construction that compromise performance, leading to unexpected and dangerous blowouts.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Tire Blowout Accident?

Establishing liability after a tire blowout accident can be complex. Multiple parties may be partially or fully responsible, depending on the facts of the case. At Paulozzi LPA, we investigate every angle to determine who is liable and ensure you get the justice you deserve.

1. The Driver of the Vehicle With the Blowout

If the driver failed to maintain their tires—by ignoring visible wear, skipping tire rotations, or not checking tire pressure—they may be legally responsible for the crash. Every driver in Ohio has a duty of care to maintain a safe vehicle.

Key indicators of negligence:

  • Driving with visibly damaged tires
  • Ignoring tire pressure warnings
  • Failing routine maintenance or inspections

2. Vehicle Owner or Fleet Company

If the vehicle is owned by an employer, rental agency, or fleet company, the owner may bear responsibility for improper maintenance. Commercial vehicles, especially, must meet strict safety standards.

3. Tire Manufacturer

If a tire defect is the root cause of the blowout, the manufacturer could be liable under product liability law. Defects may stem from:

  • Poor design
  • Subpar materials
  • Errors during the manufacturing process

4. Tire Retailer or Installer

A mechanic or tire shop that installs the wrong tires, fails to spot damage, or improperly mounts the tires could be held accountable for negligence.

5. Government Entities

In cases where poor road maintenance contributed to the blowout—such as a gaping pothole or failure to clear debris—the local or state government agency may share liability. However, claims against the government involve stricter rules and timelines.

Evidence Needed to Prove Liability

Successfully recovering compensation after a tire blowout accident requires strong, compelling evidence. At Paulozzi LPA, we know how to gather and leverage this evidence for your benefit.

1. Photos and Videos

Images of the accident scene, tire damage, and road conditions can demonstrate what caused the blowout.

2. Tire Inspection

Preserving the damaged tire is essential. Experts can examine it for manufacturing defects or signs of wear.

3. Vehicle Maintenance Records

Records showing a lack of tire servicing or replacement can point to driver or owner negligence.

4. Witness Testimonies

Statements from passengers or other motorists can corroborate your account of the incident.

5. Expert Witnesses

Mechanical engineers or accident reconstruction specialists may be called to explain how and why the blowout occurred.

Can a Driver Be Held Responsible Even if the Blowout Was Sudden?

Yes. While tire blowouts can be unexpected, drivers are still responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe. Courts may find a driver partially or fully liable if the tire’s condition could have been detected and addressed with routine inspections.

Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover compensation—though your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you’ve been injured in a tire blowout accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (current and future)
  • Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Wrongful death (in fatal cases)

At Paulozzi LPA, we evaluate the full impact of the accident on your life to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

How Paulozzi LPA Can Help After a Tire Blowout Accident

At Paulozzi LPA, we’ve spent decades helping Ohio residents navigate the aftermath of personal injury injuries—including those caused by tire blowouts. When you hire our team, you gain:

  • Free Consultations: We offer no-cost, no-obligation case evaluations to help you understand your legal options.
  • Contingency Fee Agreements: You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
  • Aggressive Investigation: Our attorneys work with investigators, expert witnesses, and accident reconstructionists to build a strong case.
  • Negotiation and Litigation Experience: We’ve successfully handled complex claims against individuals, corporations, and government agencies. Whether we’re negotiating with insurance adjusters or taking your case to court, you can trust our experience.

FAQs About Tire Blowout Accidents

What Should I Do After a Tire Blowout Accident?

  • Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention
  • Take photos of the vehicle, tires, and surrounding area
  • Get contact information from all parties and witnesses
  • Do not discard the tire—it may be crucial evidence
  • Contact an experienced car accident attorney

Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. Under Ohio’s modified comparative fault rule, as long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages.

Are Tire Blowouts Covered by Insurance?

Tire blowouts themselves may not be covered under standard policies. However, accident-related damages (injuries, property damage, etc.) may be covered under the liability, collision, or uninsured motorist portions of your policy—depending on the circumstances.

Don’t Face a Tire Blowout Accident Alone — Contact Paulozzi LPA Today

A tire blowout accident can change your life in an instant. Whether you were the driver with the blown tire or the victim of someone else’s negligence, you deserve to understand your rights and options. At Paulozzi LPA, we are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable and helping you rebuild your life.

We’ve earned a reputation across Ohio for our client-first approach, honest advice, and aggressive advocacy. Let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us to schedule a free consultation or call us today for expert legal support. We’re here when you need us—no upfront fees, no stress, just real legal support.

 

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