A rollover crash on Interstate 20 in Midland County left a 29-year-old man dead after his vehicle experienced an alleged tire failure. The Texas Department of Public Safety said the crash happened around 7 p.m. on August 20 near mile marker 147, when a 2007 Kia Sorento’s left rear tire blew out. The vehicle reportedly veered off the roadway and overturned. The driver, Harley D. Henderson of Colorado City, was transported to Midland Memorial Hospital but later died from his injuries on August 24. The crash remains under investigation.
Tire blowouts that lead to fatal crashes immediately make me question whether the tire was faulty. Was this simply the result of worn or underinflated tires, or was a defective product the real cause?
Could a Tire Defect Have Been Involved?
While tire blowouts often stem from age, neglect, or improper inflation, there are also cases where a defective tire design or manufacturing flaw is to blame. A sudden tread separation, sidewall weakness, or adhesion failure could all cause a catastrophic blowout even if the tire appeared in good condition. Investigators may need to determine the brand, model, and age of the tire to see if it has been subject to recalls or linked to similar failures. If a defect is suspected, liability could extend to the tire manufacturer or distributor.
What Types of Evidence Should Be Examined?
The failed tire itself will be the most important piece of evidence. Tire experts will inspect it for tread separation, punctures, sidewall damage, and signs of adhesion problems. Maintenance records can confirm how the tire was cared for and when it was last replaced. Crash scene evidence, such as yaw marks and the final resting position of the vehicle, may help confirm whether the tire blowout directly caused the rollover. Data from the vehicle’s onboard systems, if retrievable, could also provide insight into speed and driver inputs at the time of failure.
Why the Investigation Matters
When a fatal crash is linked to a tire blowout, the stakes go beyond a single vehicle. Determining whether this was a preventable failure of maintenance or a defective product is critical. Ultimately, a thorough investigation is the best way to figure out the exact cause of this crash.