Tire blowouts occur when a tire bursts and there is a rapid loss of air pressure.  Most of the time, these blowouts occur because the tire has not been inflated fully and properly.  When there is too little air pressure, the mechanics of the tire can fail and cause a sudden burst.

Other factors that can contribute to a tire blowing are overloading the vehicle, having a cut or puncture that causes the loss of air, or sudden impact damage.  Anything that allows air to escape from the tire can result in a blowout.  The age of the tire is also a factor, which is why it is important to get your tires replaced on a regular basis.

Blowouts can be best avoided by routine maintenance and inspection of the tires.  If you do however experience a tire blowout while driving, you will hear a loud bang followed by a flapping noise.  The car will pull in the direction of the blown-out tire.  It is important not to slam on the brakes as may be your first instinct.  Instead, it is actually advisable to accelerate in order to maintain speed.  You will have to keep both hands firmly on the wheel to counter the car’s tendency to pull towards the tire.  Once you have proper control of the car, you can slowly decrease your speed and safely pull over.

This is another example of the importance of staying focused on the road.  Whether you are the one who experiences the tire blowout, or it is another car on the road, these things happen in a fraction of a second.  If you are distracted or don’t have both hands on the wheel, a much more serious accident can result.

There are many factors to consider in a tire-blowout accident.  You might have been involved in an accident during which someone else’s tire blew out and caused the accident.  Or your tire might have burst, but there are many factors that must be considered before determining liability.  An attorney can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.