Flat Tire Causes Multi-Vehicle Accident on I-35

According to a KSAT News report, a flat tire caused a multi-vehicle accident involving an 18-wheeler on I-35 on August 29, 2023.

Police reported that a driver got stuck on I-35 after his tire went flat at around 6 a.m. this morning. The driver was then struck by another vehicle, which caused an 18-wheeler to hit that vehicle. The car that was hit by the 18-wheeler was thrown to the center median, and the driver was trapped but not hurt. No injuries were reported as a result of this accident.

Did You Know?

Tire-related accidents caused 622 deaths in 2021, according to the NHTSA.

Tire Blowout Accidents in Texas – Am I Liable?

If you’ve ever driven down a highway, you’ve probably seen tire fragments on the road. Tire blowouts happen — a lot. But what happens if your tire blows and causes an accident? Are you responsible for paying damages? Is there any way to avoid losing control of your vehicle if your tire blows?

Let’s take a look.

Legal Consequences of Tire-Related Accidents

If your tire blows and causes an accident (especially if someone is hurt), you could be held responsible for damages. You see, drivers are responsible for ensuring their tires are in good condition. But there are some cases when the blowout could be out of your control. For example:

• Potholes – and other poorly maintained roadways may cause tires that are well-kept to blow.
• Debris – left behind from other drivers or construction that causes a cut in your tire.
• Puncture Damage – from small nails or other materials that cause a slow leak, leading to an unexpected tire blowout.
• Improper Tires – If an auto shop mounted the wrong size or tire type for your vehicle, they may be partially responsible for your accident.
• Defective Tires – Defective tires are rare, but they do happen. Manufacturers, designers, and retailers may share fault for a defective tire.

The best way to protect yourself from a blowout accident is prevention, according to the NHTSA. That means avoiding construction areas and regularly checking the condition of your tires. The problem is you can’t always avoid construction zones, especially highway construction, which San Antonio is experiencing a lot of. That, combined with the extreme weather conditions, is putting unusual strain on your tires this summer. So, if you think some third-party factor caused your blowout accident, contact Carabin Shaw.

How to Avoid a Blowout Accident

Here’s what to do if your tire blows while you’re driving, according to the NHTSA:

1. Grab the wheel with both hands.
2. Maintain your speed if it’s safe to do so.
3. Slowly release the accelerator.
4. Look where you want to go and gradually correct your steering.
5. Once you’ve stabilized, begin to move off the road and stop at the closest safe location.

The best thing you can do when your tire blows is not to panic. Slamming the brakes, turning suddenly, or hitting the gas can cause you to spiral out of control.

Hire Carabin Shaw Auto Accident Attorneys

If you were in an accident because of a tire blowout, contact the experienced auto accident attorneys at the Carabin Shaw law firm. There may be other factors that contributed to your accident, so contact our firm to get your case evaluated at 800-862-1260 or use the live chat at the bottom right of your screen. We look forward to serving you.