How a Defective Tire Attorney Can Help

Tire defect cases are complex and often involve powerful corporations and technical issues. A lawyer can guide you through this process and advocate for the compensation you deserve. Whether you were the driver, a passenger, or another motorist harmed by a defective tire, your attorney can help.

At Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore, we thoroughly investigate the accident, work with engineering experts to identify the defect, and gather the evidence needed to build a strong case. Our legal team will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take the case to court to protect your rights.

From identifying liable parties to navigating product recalls and legal filings, our attorneys will manage every step so you can focus on your recovery.

Areas We Serve

Although we’re based in Tampa, our reputation for succeeding in complex cases leads us to practice statewide, serving cities including:

  • Clearwater
  • St. Petersburg
  • Ft. Lauderdale
  • Bradenton
  • Key West
  • Brandon
  • Orlando
  • Sarasota
  • Boca Raton
  • Lakeland
  • Naples
  • Fort Myers
  • Cape Coral
  • Miami
  • West Palm Beach
  • Jacksonville

Understanding Tire Defect Claims in Florida

Tire defect cases fall under the broader category of product liability claims. These lawsuits aim to hold manufacturers accountable when a product fails and causes harm. Tire defect claims often involve multiple legal theories, including:

  • Manufacturing Defects – Errors during production that make a tire unsafe, such as contaminated rubber or poor bonding.
  • Design Defects – Flaws in the tire’s blueprint or structure that make all units inherently dangerous, such as improper tread design or weak sidewalls.
  • Failure to Warn – Lack of proper labeling or failure to issue a timely recall when dangers are discovered.

If a defective tire was involved in your crash, our attorneys will determine which legal theory (or theories) apply and take swift action to build your case.

Common Types of Tire Defects

Not all tire issues are the result of a defect, but many serious crashes can be traced to poor design, manufacturing flaws, or corporate negligence. Examples of tire defects that may lead to liability include:

  • Tread separation
  • Blowouts at normal speeds
  • Bead or sidewall failures
  • Poor adhesion or bonding
  • Defective valve stems
  • Old or expired tires sold as new
  • Lack of recall despite known defects

If the tire on your vehicle—or another vehicle—was defective and caused your accident, our firm will work with experts to inspect the tire, analyze crash data, and prove the connection.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Tire Defect Case?

Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries:

  • Tire manufacturers – For defective design, materials, or quality control
  • Vehicle manufacturers – If they installed defective tires or failed to warn consumers
  • Retailers or installers – For selling unsafe or expired tires
  • Distributors – For mishandling or improper storage of tires

Unlike other accident cases, tire defect claims often involve strict liability, meaning you may not need to prove negligence—only that the product was defective and caused harm.

What Compensation Can I Recover?

Victims of defective tire accidents in Florida may be entitled to financial compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. Your compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries and other circumstances.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover measurable financial losses related to the crash and your recovery, such as:

  • Emergency room and hospital bills
  • Surgery and rehabilitation costs
  • Prescription medication
  • Lost wages and future earning capacity
  • Cost of home or vehicle modifications
  • Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for the emotional and personal impact of the accident, including:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Permanent disability
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)

If your case involves gross negligence or willful misconduct, you may also be eligible for punitive damages to punish and deter the responsible party.

Recent Tire Recalls & Safety Concerns

Tire recalls happen more often than many drivers realize. Even major manufacturers like Michelin, Firestone, Goodyear, and Continental have issued recalls for defective tires. In some cases, companies fail to notify consumers or delay the recall process, increasing the risk of accidents.

Do not wait to take action if your tires are under recall, or if you suspect they may be defective. Our attorneys can investigate whether a known defect contributed to your accident and whether the manufacturer can be held accountable.

Injured in a Defective Tire Accident? Contact Wagner Law

Contact Our Florida Civil Litigation Lawyers Today

Tire defect accidents are serious. If you or a loved one was hurt due to a blowout, tread separation, or other tire-related failure, you deserve answers—and compensation.

At Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore, we bring decades of experience handling product liability claims and fighting for accident victims across Florida. We understand what’s at stake and will work tirelessly to investigate your case, identify those at fault, and pursue maximum recovery.

You don’t have to face this alone. Let our Florida defective tire lawyers help you move forward.

Call Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation

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