A possible auto product defect may have caused a fatal car accident that claimed the life of a 68-year-old Los Angeles man the morning of July 27, 2010, in Fresno. The Fresno Bee reports that the deadly crash occurred when the a tread separated from one of the tires on the van, in which the deceased victim was a passenger. Two others -- Jimmy Sanpakit, 68, of Arleta, and another passenger, Kuangrudee Kla-harn, 71, of Van Nuys – sustained injuries.
My thoughts and prayers go out to everybody who knew and loved the deceased victim. I also pray that the two injured victims recover quickly and completely.
Car Accidents
In Fresno County, 127 deaths and 3,323 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008, based on California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics. In the city of Coalinga, four people died and 15 were injured due to car accidents during the same year.
Defects and Liability Issues
It is not clear based on this news report whether the tire tread separation was the result of defective tire. If that was the case the auto maker or the manufacturer of the defective tire can be held liable for the accident, injuries and wrongful death. In cases where defective products cause death, families of deceased victims can seek compensation from the manufacturer for funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship and other related damages. Injured victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization and other damages.
A reputed California personal injury lawyer will be able to analyze all facets of such incidents and help determine who the negligent parties are and who should be held accountable. In such cases, it would be a good idea to preserve the vehicle in its current condition, unaltered, so an expert can thoroughly analyze it for any evidence of defects or malfunctions.
Have you ever experienced tire tread separation? How did you react to the situation?
None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.
