Who Is Liable If a Tire Blowout Caused My Truck Crash?

 Posted on March 25, 2025 in 18-wheeler truck accidents

The average tractor-trailer has 18 wheels. The tractor has two front and eight rear tires, with the trailer having a total of eight. This standard configuration can vary depending on the trailer type and load. If even one of those tires blows out, it can cause an accident.

18-wheeler accidents tend to cause extremely serious or fatal injuries, along with extensive vehicle damage. Injured victims or the families of fatal victims can pursue compensation, but they need first to identify the at-fault party or parties. An experienced Austin, TX personal injury lawyer can investigate your crash, establish fault and liability, and fight to maximize your compensation.

What Can Cause Tire Blowouts?

Tires can blow out for many reasons. Understanding why a blowout happened is important because the at-fault party may be liable for your accident-related damages.

Unevenly Distributed and Overweight Cargo

Although the maximum allowed gross weight of a loaded tractor-trailer, including cargo, is 80,000 pounds, there are also weight limits per axle. Overweight loads can put too much pressure on all the tires, and unbalanced loads focus more weight on specific tires. Cargo owners could be liable, and trucking companies or their clients that knowingly ordered overweight freight transport might also share liability.

Roadway Debris and Potholes

Rough road surfaces, broken pavement, and potholes can put undue strain on tires. Debris on roadways can puncture tires, as well. Government agencies responsible for road maintenance may be at fault. If the debris causing the tire blowout came from a road construction zone, the construction company may be responsible.

Tire Manufacturers

Manufacturers are responsible for their products’ design and production flaws. Poorly designed tires and manufacturing errors can produce defective tires, potentially leaving the tire manufacturer liable for blowouts.

Truck Maintenance Companies

Trucks require frequent and consistent maintenance. Whoever is responsible for that maintenance, whether a third-party contractor, truck company, or leasing company, should always inspect every tire closely, replace tires with worn spots or low tread, and inflate tires to the correct pressure. They should also pay attention to any tire recalls.

Unsafe Driving Habits

Truck drivers enter and exit their trucks several times daily. They should make visual inspections of tires part of their routine, taking appropriate action if a tire appears unsafe. Aggressive driving habits, including not trying to avoid hitting debris and potholes, can also increase the chance of tire blowouts.

How Can I Find Out What Led to the Tire Blowout that Caused My Accident?

With so many potential reasons for a tire to blow out, an investigation must be conducted. While most people do not have the resources needed to perform a thorough investigation, your attorney does.

We will also calculate your case’s value. Your eligible damages may include property damage, current and future lost income and medical expenses, and multiple forms of pain and suffering. Even with indisputable evidence, the liable insurance company is highly unlikely to offer you a reasonable settlement amount. We will fight on your behalf to help you recover the highest available damages.

Discuss Your Case With Our Skilled Bexar County, TX Truck Accident Lawyer

When you choose Alford Law PLLC, you are partnering with a dedicated San Antonio, TX personal injury attorney who is determined to protect your best interests. We only get paid if we win your case. Call 210-951-9467 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.