Kenny Habetz Injury Law | June 3, 2025 | Personal Injury
Tire blowouts can turn an ordinary drive into a dangerous situation in seconds. Whether you’re on a busy Louisiana interstate or a rural highway, a sudden tire failure can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
If you experience a tire blowout, knowing what to do next is critical for your safety and to protect your rights if a personal injury claim becomes necessary.
1. Stay Calm and Regain Control of the Vehicle
The first few seconds after a blowout are the most dangerous. Your instinct may be to brake hard or swerve, but doing so can make things worse. Instead:
- Grip the steering wheel firmly.
- Keep the vehicle moving straight.
- Slowly ease off the accelerator.
- Allow the vehicle to slow down naturally.
Once the car has decelerated, carefully steer to the shoulder or a safe area away from traffic.
2. Ensure Your Safety and Turn on Hazard Lights
After pulling over:
- Engage your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Set up reflective triangles or flares if available, especially at night or in low visibility conditions.
- Do not attempt to change the tire on the side of a busy highway unless you’re in a very safe zone.
If you’re in a potentially hazardous location or have been involved in a collision, call 911 to request assistance.
3. Document the Scene and Inspect the Damage
Even if there was no collision, it’s a good idea to take photos of:
- The blown tire and any visible defects
- The vehicle’s position
- Any skid marks or debris on the road
- License plates or damages if other vehicles were involved
This documentation may be important later, particularly if the blowout was due to a manufacturing defect or improper maintenance by a third party (such as a repair shop or tire installer).
4. Seek Medical Attention, Even if You Feel Fine
The adrenaline rush after a near-miss or crash may mask symptoms of injury. It’s important to get a full medical evaluation, especially for:
A medical report also serves as important documentation if you file a personal injury claim.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney if You Were Injured
If the tire blowout resulted in a crash or injuries, or if it was caused by someone else’s negligence, hiring a lawyer can help you prove your case.
An experienced Louisiana personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the cause of the blowout
- Identify liable parties (manufacturer, mechanic, or government agency)
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if necessary to secure full compensation
You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Without legal representation, insurance companies may attempt to shift blame or undervalue your claim. An attorney can ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Common Causes of Tire Blowouts in Louisiana
While tire blowouts can happen anywhere, Louisiana drivers often face:
- Extreme heat and humidity, which increase tire pressure
- Poor road maintenance, especially in rural parishes
- Overloaded vehicles or trailers used during hurricane evacuations or festival seasons
These local conditions make it all the more important to regularly inspect your tires and be aware of manufacturer recalls.
Protect Yourself Legally and Physically
A tire blowout can be a frightening experience, but knowing how to respond can protect your health and legal rights. If your blowout leads to injury and you suspect negligence or a product defect played a role, don’t try to navigate the claims process alone.
If you need help, reach out to Kenny Habetz Injury Law. We offer a free consultation with a Lafayette car accident lawyer.
Contact the Louisiana Personal Injury Law Firm Of Kenny Habetz Injury Law for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in Louisiana, please call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for a free case evaluation with a Louisiana personal injury lawyer or contact us online. We have offices in Lafayette and Crowley, LA.
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Lafayette
110 E Kaliste Saloom Rd Ste 101 Lafayette, LA 70508
(337) 399-9000
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Crowley
604 S Parkerson Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
(337) 329-8883
