Authorities are investigating a motorcycle crash that killed one person and injured another Saturday afternoon in Nacogdoches County. Emergency crews responded to the 10100 block of SH 204 around 1:30 p.m., where bystanders had already begun CPR on the passenger and were assisting the rider. Authorities pronounced the passenger dead at the scene. Investigators believe the crash was caused by a rear tire blowout that led the rider to lose control of the bike.
When I hear about a tire failure like this, I immediately think about whether a manufacturing defect, installation error, or maintenance issue could have played a role.
Could a Defective Tire Be to Blame?
Motorcycle tires are critical to safety, and a failure can have serious consequences, especially at highway speeds. Investigators will want to determine the age of the tire, whether it was properly maintained and inflated, and if it was subject to any recalls or manufacturing flaws. In some cases, even a new tire can fail if there’s a hidden defect in its construction or materials. A full review of the tire’s origin and service history may reveal whether the failure was preventable.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To get a clearer picture of what went wrong, the tire should be preserved for forensic analysis. Investigators will likely examine the tread, sidewall, and bead for signs of delamination or structural failure. Maintenance records, purchase receipts, and manufacturer data may also be relevant. Witness statements and any surveillance or dashcam footage could help determine the speed and dynamics of the crash, which can be important in evaluating whether the tire performed as expected.
Why Thorough Investigation Is Critical
Crashes involving a possible equipment failure deserve careful scrutiny. In my experience, a detailed investigation can uncover whether the tire failed due to a defect, poor maintenance, or some other issue, and that’s the key to providing answers and assigning accountability where appropriate.