Five people were injured in a Riverside car accident after a tire blowout sent the car out of control. According to a KPSP news report, the injury collision occurred the afternoon of May 26, 2010, when the car was traveling on the 10 Freeway, close to Indio. California Highway Patrol officials say one of the car’s tires blew out. The driver of the car lost control and the vehicle overturned. Five victims who were trapped in the vehicle were extricated by firefighters. One of the victims was airlifted with critical injuries while four others sustained minor to moderate injuries. All were transported to local hospitals. An investigation is ongoing.

I sympathize with all the victims of this horrific crash. It is indeed fortunate that no one was fatally injured. I wish all the victims here, especially the critically injured person, the very best for a quick and complete recovery. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Rollover Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), at least 10,000 people are killed each year in rollover accidents. That constitutes about 25 percent of all fatal traffic accidents nationwide each year. Rollover crashes are often triggered by tire blowouts.

Tire Blowouts

Based on this news report, the rollover crash was the direct result of the tire blowout. But the question is: Why did the tire blowout occur? Was it because of a defective tire or because the tires were not maintained properly? In either case, when a tire blowout occurs especially at freeway speeds, it can be extremely difficult even for a seasoned driver to control the car.

Claim for Compensation

It would be in the best interests of the injured victims and their families to preserve the vehicle in its current crashed condition here, as well as the tires, so they can be thoroughly examined by an expert for malfunctions, defects and other evidence. If a defective tire caused the accident, then victims can file a product liability claim against the auto maker or the tire manufacturer. In such cases, victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation and other related damages. The best Riverside personal injury lawyers will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What are some tips you would offer for good tire maintenance?

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.