Accident Caused by Unsafe Tires and Wheels

When we think of car accidents, we often picture reckless driving, bad weather, or mechanical failures. But one often-overlooked danger on New Jersey roads is defective tires and wheels. A single flaw—whether in design, manufacturing, or maintenance—can turn an ordinary drive into a nightmare. One moment, you’re cruising along the highway; the next, you’re facing a catastrophic accident, life-altering injuries, or even a tragic loss. The consequences of a faulty tire or wheel can be swift and devastating. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a tire or wheel-related crash, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

Wheel Defects: A Hidden Danger on New Jersey Roads

Wheels are more than just metal discs that support your tires—they are an integral part of your vehicle’s safety system. When they fail, accidents can happen in an instant. Some common wheel defects include:

• Cracked or bent rims – A defect in the wheel structure can lead to sudden tire failure.
• Improperly installed or loose lug nuts – Wheels can detach while driving, leading to serious accidents.
• Faulty wheel bearings – These components allow the wheel to spin smoothly. If they fail, the wheel can seize or detach.
• Corrosion and rust – In coastal areas of New Jersey, like Atlantic City or Cape May, corrosion from salt exposure can weaken wheels over time.

Notable NJ Case: The Danger of Detaching Wheels

In 2018, a tragic accident on the New Jersey Turnpike involved a truck wheel detaching and striking a car in the opposite lane, causing a fatal crash. Investigators found that improper maintenance was to blame. Cases like this highlight the importance of properly inspecting and maintaining vehicles.

Tire Defects: Blowouts, Tread Separation, and More

Faulty or poorly maintained tires are another common cause of serious accidents. Some common tire defects include:

• Tread separation – When the tread peels away from the tire, it can cause a loss of control.
• Blowouts – Rapid deflation can lead to rollovers, especially at high speeds.
• Sidewall defects – Weak spots in the sidewall can cause unexpected failures.
• Expired or aged tires – Tires degrade over time, even if they appear to be in good condition. Many accidents occur due to tires that are past their safe usage period.

New Jersey Tire Safety Laws

New Jersey law requires that vehicle tires meet certain safety standards. According to N.J.S.A. 39:3-72, tires must have a minimum tread depth of 1/16 of an inch to be legally roadworthy. Vehicles with bald or unsafe tires may fail inspections or be deemed unfit for the road.

Preventing Accidents Caused by Unsafe Tires and Wheels

While manufacturers and service providers have a responsibility to ensure vehicle components are safe, drivers should also take proactive steps:

1. Regular Inspections – Have your tires and wheels checked during routine maintenance.
2. Check for Recalls – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a database of tire recalls. Check your tire brand and model regularly here.
3. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle – Excessive weight can increase stress on tires and wheels.
4. Be Aware of Tire Age – Even if your tread looks good, tires older than six years may be unsafe due to rubber degradation.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

If an accident caused by a defective tire or wheel has impacted your life, a personal injury lawyer can help you seek justice and compensation. In New Jersey, personal injury claims related to defective auto parts can involve multiple parties, including:

• The vehicle manufacturer
• The tire or wheel manufacturer
• The auto repair shop that performed maintenance
• The trucking company responsible for vehicle upkeep (in commercial truck accidents)

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in NJ

Under the statute of limitations outlined in N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the case involves wrongful death, the family also has two years from the date of passing to pursue a claim.

Recent NJ Lawsuit Example: Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

In 2014, an Essex County jury awarded $5.5 million to a family injured when a tire blew out on their SUV. The court found that Flemington Buick Chevrolet Pontiac GMC was negligent in servicing the vehicle just days before the accident. This case underscores the importance of due diligence when replacing tires and the legal responsibility of service providers.

Contact Rosengard Law Group for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has suffered due to an accident caused by unsafe tires or wheels, you deserve justice. The team at Rosengard Law Group is experienced in handling personal injury cases involving auto defects. We will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Call us today at (856) 284-6446 or visit Rosengard Law Group to schedule your free consultation.