Tire Failures Can Be Deadly — How to Protect Yourself – Auto Accident Attorneys

A heartbreaking crash in Venango County recently claimed the lives of two PennDOT workers, according to reports from ABC27. The tragic incident happened along Interstate 80, reminding us all that even a routine drive can turn deadly in an instant — and often, defective or poorly maintained tires are part of the problem.

Tires are the only thing connecting your vehicle to the road. When they fail — whether due to defects, blowouts, worn tread, or improper maintenance — the consequences can be catastrophic. Sadly, preventable tire failures contribute to thousands of accidents each year across Pennsylvania and the U.S.

Common Tire-Related Dangers to Watch For

Whether you’re driving a small car, a work truck, or a commercial vehicle, tire safety is critical. Here’s what every driver should keep an eye on:

Worn Tread: Bald tires lose traction, especially on wet roads, and dramatically increase stopping distances.
Cracks or Bulges: These are signs of tire weakness that can lead to blowouts.
Low Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires overheat more easily, raising the risk of a blowout.
Overloaded Vehicles: Carrying excessive weight puts dangerous stress on tires.
Old Tires: Even tires with good tread can become unsafe due to age-related deterioration.
Manufacturing Defects: Some tires leave the factory with hidden defects that can cause sudden failure — often leading to lawsuits and recalls.

Tragically, when a tire blows out on the highway, especially on high-speed routes like I-80, the results are often deadly for both drivers and roadside workers, like the PennDOT employees involved in the recent crash.

When Tire Failures Are More Than Just an Accident

While many people assume a tire blowout is simply “bad luck,” in reality, some crashes are caused by:

Tire Defects from poor manufacturing or design.
Negligence by Repair Shops failing to properly install or inspect tires.
Fleet or Trucking Companies cutting corners on maintenance.
Failure to Remove Recalled Tires still in circulation.

In these cases, victims and families may have the right to pursue legal action. At Heavens Law Firm, we’ve handled cases where tire failures weren’t just accidents — they were preventable tragedies caused by negligence.

What to Do After a Tire-Related Crash

If you or someone you love is injured in a crash involving a tire blowout or suspected tire defect:

Document Everything — Photos of the tire, vehicle damage, and crash scene are crucial.
Preserve the Evidence — Don’t let the tire or vehicle be destroyed without consulting an attorney.
Seek Medical Attention — Even minor injuries can worsen over time.
Contact a Lawyer Early — Time is critical to investigate and hold responsible parties accountable.

Injured in a Tire-Related Crash? Heavens Law Firm Can Help.

If you suspect a defective tire or negligence caused your crash, don’t face the legal system alone. The experienced team at Heavens Law Firm stands ready to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.