A tire blowout can happen anytime, anywhere. On a regular car, a skilled driver can normally bring the situation under control—but, with the weight, speed, and momentum of a semi-truck, a blown tire can turn into a nightmare crash in seconds.

It’s not just the semi that’s in danger, either. Losing control of a massive truck also endangers the lives of everyone around them—including you.

If you’ve been involved in a tire blowout semi-truck accident, you could be eligible for compensation. Here’s what you need to know.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen

Accidents happen for a variety of reasons, from defective parts to driver error. The environment, such as the weather and condition of the roads, also plays a big part. Some are under the driver’s control, while others are not.

The major causes of tire blowouts on 18-wheelers are:

  • Road hazards – Such as soft edges or sharp rocks, both of which can cause tire damage.
  • An overloaded truck – Too much pressure on the tire can quickly lead it to burst.
  • Previous puncture – Slow leaks can go unnoticed but quickly turn into a big problem.
  • Weather – Hot weather like we get in Houston can heat up both roads and tires, making them soft and prone to bursting.
  • Underinflation – Tire pressure has to be right for both the size of the load and the road conditions, or it’ll put a strain on the tire.
Long-Lasting Effects

Major crashes are all too frequent for big vehicles. Because of the sheer size of the truck, if something goes wrong, it’ll go wrong in the worst way. These types of accidents can sometimes even lead to fatalities. Even if they don’t, they can leave long-lasting effects on anyone involved, including:

  • Serious injuries, including head and neck trauma and brain damage
  • Resulting medical expenses that can take months or years to pay off
  • Psychological pain and suffering
  • Ongoing loss of quality of life
  • Inability to work and generate income
Who Can Be Held Liable?

Hardships suffered as a result of a crash deserve compensation. When you’re seeking damages, there are three possible defendants who can be held liable:

  • The driver – Driver error might be to blame for the tire blowout if the driver displayed negligence in failing to check for punctures or inflated the tires improperly. In Houston, there are limits on how much weight each truck can carry. If the driver was over this weight, then they might also be held liable.
  • Their employer – Trucking companies are also often to blame for not enough maintenance on their vehicles, not training their drivers, or overloading the semi.
  • The tire manufacturer – Sometimes the accident is caused by a defective or dangerously designed tire. If that’s the case, you can also sue the tire manufacturer for its part in the crash.
Get the Right Compensation with the Best Houston Truck Accident Lawyer

An 18-wheeler accident shouldn’t ruin your life forever. At Johnson Garcia LLP, we’ll fight to get you all the compensation you deserve, so you can get your life back on track.

Our partners have over 30+ years of combined experience, recovering millions of dollars of damages for people just like you. If you or someone you love has been in a crash, our team of trusted Houston semi-truck accident lawyers will take you every step of the way until your case is successfully resolved—and, remember, if you don’t win, you don’t pay.

Don’t settle for less than you deserve. For a free case evaluation, call us straight away at (832) 844-6700.