BAD MOTORCYCLE TIRES CAN BE DEADLY: WHAT BIKERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TIRE-RELATED MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

Motorcycle accidents are caused by a variety of factors that include hazardous weather, slippery roads and other motorists or bikers who are drunk, distracted or engaging in reckless behavior such as speeding. Surprisingly, faulty tires are also the cause of many serious accidents.

Here is a guide to maintaining these vital components for smoother, safer rides and how an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help if you are injured in a tire-related crash.

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WHAT ARE THE MOST DANGEROUS TIRE CONDITIONS?

Serious motorcycle accidents can result from various kinds of tire deficiencies. Here are some of the most common:

• Wrong tire size, make or style
• Incorrect installation
• Over- or under-inflation
• Worn tread  
• Sidewall separation
• Cracks, bulges or other damage
• Hardened rubber  
• Poor tire design
• Faulty manufacturing processes or equipment
• Inferior materials

 HOW DOES COLD WEATHER AFFECT MOTORCYCLE TIRES?

Cold temperatures have a significant effect on tire pressure, which is why tires should be checked more often during the long Michigan winter. Tires lose pressure in cold weather, and under-inflated tires can impair traction, especially when snow is falling and roads are slippery.

In addition to increasing traction, properly inflated tires also improve fuel economy and help the environment by reducing resistance and CO2 emissions.  

Recommended reading: A Guide to the Michigan Laws for Motorcycle Passengers

HOW CAN I TELL IF A DEFECTIVE TIRE CAUSED MY MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT?

It only takes a moment for a crash to occur, and determining what happened can be difficult. However, the presence – or absence – of certain factors may indicate an accident was caused by a defective tire.

If you answer yes to most of the following questions, your crash may have been caused by a faulty or improperly mounted tire:

• Were new tires recently installed on the bike?
• Did you hear unfamiliar noises coming from the tires prior to the accident?
• Did your motorcycle wobble or did you lose control of the front wheel immediately before the accident?
• Was your bike heavily loaded for a long trip or were you riding with a passenger?
• Can you rule out other likely causes such as bad weather, hazardous road conditions, drug or alcohol use or actions by another motorcyclist or automobile driver?

While the above conditions may be signs of a tire-related crash, filing a lawsuit against the responsible party requires more definitive proof. This is one of many reasons to hire an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to receive the compensation you deserve.   

Recommended reading: Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE TIRES?

Determining liability for a crash resulting from faulty tires can be complicated. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, there may be more than one responsible party.

Here are some examples of individuals or businesses that could be liable for an accident resulting from a tire flaw:

• Tire manufacturer or designer (for failure caused by faulty design, manufacturing errors or inferior materials)
• Mechanic or repair shop (when the wrong tires are used or tires are incorrectly installed)
• Another driver or motorcyclist (when a tire fails after a bike is hit or forced off the road by another vehicle)
• A government entity (when a pothole or road hazard damages a tire and causes a crash)

Establishing fault and recovering damages can be a difficult, lengthy process, especially when more than one party may be responsible for a crash. This is why it is important to contact a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure the best financial outcome.

Recommended reading: Does Medicare Cover Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan?

DO I NEED A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER IF MY CRASH WAS CAUSED BY A TIRE DEFECT?

Yes. It is wise to call a motorcycle accident lawyer if you are injured in any type of crash, regardless of the cause. These claims can be extremely complicated for a variety of reasons, including the fact that motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles under Michigan law.

In addition, the laws vary for different types of motorcycle accidents, particularly regarding eligibility for No-Fault benefits. And, determining liability and recovering damages can be especially challenging when a crash is caused by a faulty tire.  

Winning a large settlement that includes future losses and intangible damages such as pain and suffering takes a skilled attorney with a thorough knowledge of motorcycle accident law. Our lawyers have what it takes to win the compensation you and your family deserve.

That’s the Bernstein Biker Advantage®.

Recommended reading: Motorcycle Accidents Without Insurance: What Every Biker Should Know

HOW TO AVOID TIRE-RELATED MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

Use tires designed for the make/model of the bike

This is more important when buying or riding a used motorcycle, since new bikes are usually equipped with manufacturer-specified tires. Riding a bike with the wrong tires can be dangerous for a number of reasons.

Inspect tires regularly for wear and damage

Examine the tires on your bike as well as one you may buy or rent. Even the right tires are dangerous if they are worn, damaged or improperly inflated. Make sure there is sufficient tread and look for uneven wear, holes, bulges, cracks and signs of sidewall separation.

Check air pressure regularly, especially in cold weather

Riding on tires that are over- or under-inflated can be dangerous. To maintain proper air pressure, use a reliable gauge to check tires at least once a week and before a long trip. Air pressure should be checked when tires are cold, in the morning or at least three hours after a bike has been ridden. Fill tires as needed using a high-quality air compressor.

Repair or replace damaged tires immediately

Tires are one of the most crucial components of any motorcycle, and riding on defective tires can be deadly. To avoid a disaster, repair or replace damaged tires without delay.

Recommended reading: Hiring An Attorney For A Motorcycle Accident 

GET THE BERNSTEIN BIKER ADVANTAGE® TODAY WITH OUR EXPERIENCED MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS

Because many of our lawyers and staff members ride, we know the pleasures and pitfalls of riding a motorcycle. We also understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be for the biker and their loved ones. And, we understand the complexities of Michigan motorcycle law and the many legal issues surrounding these claims. With our vast collective experience, legal expertise and extensive resources, we know how to build a winning case and we will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Motorcycle accident laws are complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple. 

Click the button below or call 1-800-CALL-SAM today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.

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