Toyo Tire U.S.A, a company based in Cypress, California, has recalled nearly 69,000 tires because of a serious defect that could lead to tire failure. According to an Associated Press news report, the faulty tires may have a kink near the rim area that could cause a crack and a blowout. The recall involves the Toyota Extensa A/S tires that were manufactured at the Toyo Tires plant in Georgia. These tires also have a “Made in U.S.A” mark on the sidewall. Tires that have a “Made in China” or “Made in Japan” mark are not part of the recall. The company will replace these defective tires at no charge to the consumer until May 31, 2012.
Tire defects can cause serious problems for drivers, especially on highways and freeways where the speed limit is much higher. When a tire blows out as the vehicle is in motion, it can be extremely difficult even for an experienced driver to regain control of the vehicle. Tire blowouts can result in rollover accidents, leading to catastrophic injuries or even fatalities.
Tires are one of the most critical components of your vehicle. They are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making them essential for safe and comfortable driving. As such, it is essential to keep your tires in good condition to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to keep your tires safe.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tire pressure is critical to the safety and performance of your tires. Low tire pressure can cause a tire to wear unevenly, reduce fuel economy, and increase the risk of a blowout. Conversely, over-inflated tires can also wear unevenly and affect handling and braking performance. Therefore, it is crucial to check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, or before a long trip.
You can find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of each tire when they are cold. If the pressure is too low or too high, adjust it accordingly and check again.
Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires involves moving them from one position to another on your vehicle to ensure even wear. Tire rotation can extend the life of your tires and improve handling and traction. Most tire manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, the recommended interval may vary based on the type of tire and vehicle you have.
Check Your Tread Depth
Tread depth refers to the amount of rubber on the tire’s surface that comes into contact with the road. Tires with worn-out tread are more susceptible to hydroplaning and have reduced traction and handling performance. You can use a tread depth gauge to check your tires’ tread depth regularly. If the tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch, it is time to replace the tire.
Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
Overloading your vehicle can put undue stress on your tires, leading to premature wear and tear. Always check the maximum weight capacity of your vehicle and avoid exceeding it. Overloading can also cause handling and braking problems, making it more difficult to control your vehicle.
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Drive Safely
How you drive can also affect your tire’s safety and longevity. Aggressive driving, such as hard braking and accelerating, can cause excessive wear and tear on your tires. Avoiding potholes, curbs, and other road hazards can also help prevent damage to your tires. Finally, ensure that you are driving at a safe speed for the road conditions, as excessive speed can also put undue stress on your tires.
Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment refers to the angle of the wheels concerning the vehicle’s body. Proper wheel alignment ensures that the tires wear evenly, improving handling and extending their life. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, vibration, and poor handling. If you notice uneven tire wear, a vibration, or your vehicle pulling to one side, it may be time to have your alignment checked by a professional.
In a case where a victim has been injured as a result of a faulty tire, he or she can file a products liability claim against the tire manufacturer seeking compensation for damages. If you have lost a loved one in a crash involving tire failure, you can file a wrongful death claim against the manufacturer of the defective tire seeking damages. The experienced defective product lawyers at Shook & Stone have a long and successful track record of helping injured victims and their families obtain fair compensation for their losses. Please contact our law offices at 702-570-0000 for a free comprehensive and confidential consultation.
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