A Sudden Burst—and Everything Changes
You’re cruising down the highway at 65 mph, music playing, eyes on the road. Then—bang. Your vehicle jerks violently. The steering wheel fights your grip. In seconds, what felt like a routine drive turns into a terrifying struggle for control.
This is the harsh reality of a tire blowout, a common yet often underestimated danger. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related crashes cause over 11,000 accidents annually in the U.S.
If you’ve experienced a blowout or been involved in a crash caused by one, knowing your next steps is crucial—not only for your safety but also to protect your legal rights.
Understanding the root cause can help determine who’s at fault and whether you’re entitled to compensation. Common causes include:
Underinflated tires
Overloaded vehicles
Tire defects or poor maintenance
Potholes or road debris
Extreme heat or weather conditions
Sometimes, the driver isn’t to blame. Liability may fall on manufacturers, maintenance shops, or even third parties who left debris on the road.
1. Stay Calm and Regain Control
Hold the steering wheel firmly
Do not slam on the brakes
Ease off the accelerator and steer gently to safety
2. Check for Injuries
Assess yourself and passengers
Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt
3. Move to a Safe Area
If it’s safe, exit the vehicle and stay away from traffic
4. Document the Scene
Take photos of the tire, vehicle damage, and surroundings
Note road conditions and any debris
Get witness contact info, if possible
5. File a Police Report
Even if damage appears minor, always report the incident. It’s key for insurance and legal claims
6. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries—like concussions or internal trauma—aren’t immediately obvious
A medical evaluation creates essential documentation for any claims
Tire blowouts can lead to high-speed collisions and rollovers. Victims often suffer:
Whiplash and spinal injuries
Broken bones
Head and brain trauma
Internal bleeding
Emotional distress or PTSD
Even minor accidents can lead to long-term medical issues. That’s why it’s important to speak with a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Determining who is liable for a tire blowout accident can be complex, as several parties may share responsibility. Here’s a breakdown of who could be at fault:
The Driver:
If the blowout was caused by the driver’s failure to maintain the vehicle (e.g., not properly checking tire pressure or neglecting tire wear), they could be held liable.
Tire Manufacturer:
In cases where the tire defect caused the blowout, the manufacturer could be responsible. Tire defects might include issues like improper materials, faulty construction, or design flaws. In such cases, a product liability claim may be filed against the manufacturer.
Mechanics or Repair Shops:
If a mechanic or repair shop improperly installed the tires or failed to identify an existing issue (e.g., improper tire pressure or mounting), they could be held accountable.
Another Driver or Third Party:
Sometimes, road debris or conditions (like potholes) can cause a tire blowout. If another driver caused the debris or failed to maintain their vehicle in a way that contributed to the incident, they could share liability.
Commercial Vehicle or Trucking Companies:
If the tire blowout involved a commercial vehicle or truck, the liability could extend to the trucking company or even a third-party contractor responsible for maintaining the vehicle. Trucking accidents often involve complex liability because multiple parties may be involved in vehicle upkeep and operation.
In cases involving multiple parties, liability can be shared, and it’s essential to consult an experienced attorney to help navigate the legal complexities of your case.
After the accident, you’ll need to file an insurance claim—but don’t expect insurers to put your needs first. Their goal is often to minimize payouts.
A trusted auto accident attorney can help you pursue compensation for:
Medical bills (past and future)
Lost wages
Vehicle repairs or replacement
Pain and suffering
Long-term care or rehabilitation
Tire blowout cases aren’t always open and shut. They can involve:
Product liability (if a defective tire is involved)
Negligence (from a mechanic or other driver)
Complex insurance negotiations
An experienced car crash attorney will:
Investigate the accident thoroughly
Communicate with insurers on your behalf
Preserve and present vital evidence
File a lawsuit if needed
Tip: Always choose lawyers who specialize in motor vehicle accidents or auto product defects—they understand the finer details that general practice attorneys may overlook.
A Nebraska driver on I-80 lost control when their tire suddenly blew out. The crash involved multiple vehicles, and an investigation revealed the tire had a manufacturing defect. With help from a skilled personal injury law firm in Omaha, the victim received a significant settlement from the tire company and its insurer.
This case highlights why expert legal help matters—it can mean the difference between walking away empty-handed and receiving the compensation you deserve.
Here’s How to Protect Yourself:
Preserve the evidence: Keep the damaged tire and get a copy of the police report
Don’t speak with insurance adjusters alone: They are trained to reduce claims
Follow your doctor’s orders: Medical documentation is key to your claim
Hire a trusted attorney: Search for terms like:
“Car crash lawyer near me”
“Auto accident injury attorney”
“Free consultation car accident attorney”
When commercial trucks suffer blowouts, the results can be catastrophic. These vehicles are massive, and crashes often involve severe injuries or fatalities.
If you’re involved in a truck blowout accident, reach out to:
Truck accident lawyers
Vehicle accident litigation experts
Personal injury attorneys with experience in commercial cases
While you can’t control everything, here are ways to reduce your risk:
Check tire pressure monthly
Replace worn or damaged tires
Don’t overload your vehicle
Be cautious on pothole-ridden roads
Inspect tires before driving in snow or extreme heat
If a loved one died due to a tire blowout crash, you may have a wrongful death claim. This type of case can provide compensation for:
Funeral and burial costs
Loss of companionship
Future income the victim would’ve provided
A compassionate wrongful death attorney can walk you through the legal process during this incredibly difficult time.
“It was just an accident, no one’s at fault.”
Not true. Many blowouts are caused by negligence, such as improper tire maintenance or defects.
“I don’t need a lawyer if there’s no injury.”
Even if you’re not injured, property damage, emotional distress, and financial losses may still entitle you to compensation.
“The insurance company will take care of it.”
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and aim to protect their interests, not yours. A lawyer can help ensure you get a fair settlement
At Inkelaar Law, we bring years of experience helping victims of tire blowout accidents. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, we’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for clients across Nebraska and Florida.
We combine legal expertise with compassion—whether you’ve suffered property damage, catastrophic injuries, or are coping with the loss of a loved one.
Let us fight for the justice you deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a tire blowout accident, don’t wait. Reach out today:
A tire blowout can turn your life upside down in an instant. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
With the right legal support, you can hold the right parties accountable and begin the journey toward recovery.
Inkelaar Law is here to help you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
Keywords: Car crash lawyers, car accident law firms near me, auto accident law firm near me, car accident attorney near me, auto accident lawyers near me, car collision lawyers near me, lawyer for car accidents near me, automobile accident attorneys near me, motor vehicle accident attorneys near me, lawyers for auto accidents near me, automobile accident attorneys, auto accident attorneys, truck accident attorneys, trucking accident attorneys, the best attorneys for car accidents, the best motor vehicle accident attorneys, accident lawyers near me, the best lawyers for car accidents, car wreck attorneys, the best auto accident attorneys near me, the best car accident attorneys near me, the best auto accident lawyers near me, car accident injury law firms, wrongful death attorneys near me, automobile accident injury attorneys, car wreck law firms, injury lawyers for motorcycles, motor vehicle accident law firms, accident lawyers in Omaha, injury attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, personal injury law firms in Omaha, personal injury lawyers in Omaha, Nebraska, personal injury attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, accident lawyers in Omaha, injury attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, personal injury attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, personal injury lawyers in Omaha, Nebraska, lawyers for car accidents with no injuries, auto accident attorneys for cases with no injuries, Omaha, Nebraska personal injury attorneys, the best workers’ compensation attorneys near me, Omaha auto accident lawyers, car accident attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, Omaha car accident lawyers, Omaha car accident attorneys, auto accident attorneys in Omaha, car accident lawyers in Omaha, Nebraska, auto accident attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, Nebraska car accident lawyers, Nebraska car accident attorneys, car accident attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska auto accident attorneys, auto accident lawyers in Omaha, car accident lawyers in Omaha, negligence attorneys near me, auto damage lawyers, free consultation lawyers for car accidents, workers’ compensation attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska, Nebraska personal injury attorneys, personal injury attorneys in Nebraska, the best accident lawyers, car wreck lawsuit attorneys, motor vehicle accident lawsuit attorneys, auto accident litigation attorneys, vehicle accident lawsuit attorneys, car accident litigation attorneys, car accident litigation specialists, driving during snow accidents, head trauma from car crashes, head trauma in car accidents, car crash head injuries, car accident head trauma, auto accident head injuries, head injuries in car accidents, brain injuries from car accidents, brain injuries in car accidents, and head trauma from car accidents.
Español
