In Need of a Tractor-Trailer & Tire Blowouts Accident Lawyer?
Truck accidents involving tractor-trailers and tire blowouts are some of the most catastrophic and dangerous events on the road. In San Antonio, where commercial trucks are a common sight, victims of tire blowout accidents face severe physical, emotional, and financial hardships. The aftermath of such accidents can be overwhelming, with victims often requiring extensive medical treatment and struggling to recover from injuries that may last a lifetime.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our team of experienced San Antonio tire blowout lawyers is committed to helping victims of tractor-trailer tire blowout accidents pursue the compensation they deserve. With our deep knowledge of personal injury law and a proven track record of handling truck accident cases, we stand ready to assist you every step of the way.
What is a Tire Blowout, and How Does It Lead to Tractor-Trailer Accidents?
A tire blowout occurs when a tire on a vehicle suddenly bursts due to increased pressure or a mechanical failure. In the case of tractor-trailers, tire blowouts can be caused by several factors, including:
- Worn-out tires: Over time, tires lose tread and become more prone to blowouts.
- Improper tire maintenance: Lack of regular checks or mismanagement of tire pressure can lead to blowouts.
- Overloading: When a tractor-trailer is overloaded, excessive weight can put undue stress on the tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout.
- Manufacturing defects: In some cases, faulty tires may lead to blowouts despite proper maintenance and care.
A tire blowout on a tractor-trailer can lead to a dangerous loss of control, especially when the driver cannot react quickly enough. If the truck driver cannot steer the vehicle back onto the road, the truck may veer off, collide with other vehicles, or roll over, causing significant damage and injury.
When such an event occurs, San Antonio tire blowout attorneys from Hollingsworth Law Firm can help victims understand their legal rights and the causes of the accident. If a truck’s tire blowout is due to the negligence of the truck owner, driver, or manufacturer, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Tractor-Trailer Tire Blowout Accident Statistics and Legal Landscape in San Antonio, TX
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, tire blowouts accounted for approximately 12% of all commercial truck accidents in Bexar County during the 2023-2024 period, significantly higher than the statewide average of 7.8%.
Data shows that in 2023, San Antonio recorded 143 tractor-trailer accidents involving tire failures, resulting in 36 serious injuries and nine fatalities. The most hazardous areas include the I-10/I-35 interchange, sections of Loop 1604, and high-traffic corridors such as Wurzbach Parkway. Hot summer temperatures in South Texas contribute to the elevated risk, with 65% of blowout incidents occurring between May and September.
Under Texas law, liability in tire blowout cases can extend to multiple parties, including trucking companies, tire manufacturers, maintenance providers, and drivers. Recent San Antonio court decisions have emphasized the trucking company’s responsibility for proper tire maintenance and inspection protocols. The average settlement for severe injury cases stemming from tire blowouts in San Antonio ranged from $350,000 to $1.2 million in 2023.
Texas’s comparative negligence standard allows recovery if the plaintiff is less than 51% responsible. The two-year statute of limitations requires prompt legal action to be taken.
Common Causes of Tractor-Trailer Tire Blowouts
A tire blowout may occur for several reasons, and identifying the cause is crucial to understanding liability in such cases. Common causes include:
- Tire Wear and Tear: Tires naturally wear down over time. The blowout risk increases significantly if a truck owner or driver fails to inspect and replace tires regularly.
- Improper Tire Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including checking air pressure and rotating tires, is critical. Failure to maintain tires properly can lead to a blowout while driving.
- Overloading: A tractor-trailer loaded beyond its weight capacity puts undue stress on the tires. This excess weight can cause the tires to overheat and eventually blow out.
- Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, tire blowouts occur due to defects in the tire’s design or manufacturing process. If a defect is identified, a manufacturer could be liable for damages.
- Road Hazards: Poor road conditions, such as sharp debris, potholes, or uneven surfaces, can contribute to tire blowouts by damaging the tires or causing sudden impacts.
Types of Injuries Caused by Tractor-Trailer Tire Blowouts
The injuries caused by a tractor-trailer tire blowout can be severe and long-lasting. The sheer size and weight of these commercial vehicles, combined with the potential for a high-speed accident, can cause catastrophic injuries. Common injuries resulting from these accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
If you or a loved one has been injured in a San Antonio tractor-trailer accident, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately and consult with an experienced tractor-trailer accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
What Damages Can You Recover from a Tire Blowout Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a tractor-trailer tire blowout accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses – You can recover the cost of medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and therapy.
- Lost wages – If you cannot work due to injuries, you can claim compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering – An accident’s physical and emotional toll may warrant compensation for your pain and suffering.
- Disability and disfigurement – If the accident caused permanent disability or disfigurement, you may be entitled to compensation for these long-term effects.
- Wrongful death – If a loved one was killed in a tire blowout accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of consortium, and emotional distress.
Our San Antonio tractor-trailer accident lawyers will carefully evaluate your case and work with medical professionals to determine the full extent of your damages.
Why Choose Hollingsworth Law Firm?
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand your challenges after a serious truck accident. Our dedicated San Antonio tire blowout lawyers have the knowledge, resources, and determination to pursue justice on your behalf. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Experienced Team: We have extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases and tire blowout claims.
- Personalized Attention: We treat each client with care and attention, ensuring you receive the support you need during this difficult time.
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of successful outcomes in personal injury and truck accident cases.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact a San Antonio Tire Blowout Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer tire blowout accident in San Antonio, it’s essential to act quickly. The sooner you consult with a qualified tire blowout attorney, the sooner we can investigate your case and gather evidence to build a strong claim.
We are committed to fighting for the justice you deserve at Hollingsworth Law Firm. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get on the path to recovery.
Call 713-637-4560 or fill out our online contact form to speak with a knowledgeable San Antonio tractor-trailer accident lawyer today.
