The Parts of a Tire
To better understand the problems that cause defective tires, it is important to understand the parts of a tire and how they are made. The basic components of a steel-belted radial tire include:
Inner liner: This special type of rubber lines the inside of the tire and is designed to maintain air pressure and protect the internal tire belt components.
Body plies: Layers of fabric are sandwiched between layers of rubber, giving the tire strength and structure. Heavy-duty tires have more body plies than passenger vehicle tires.
Sidewalls: These are thick pieces of extruded rubber that protect the inner portions of the tire. Identifying markings are molded into the sidewalls.
Beads: Composed of steel wire coated in rubber, the bead allows the tire to be fit onto the wheel.
Belts: Steel belts are made up of steel cords coated with rubber and bonded together to strengthen the tire and protect it from punctures. Because steel does not bond with rubber, the steel cords are first coated with bronze before the belt's skim stock rubber is applied. Most tires have two steel belts that are stacked one on top of the other. Improper bonding or adhesion between these layers often leads to tread separation.
Belt edge wedges or strips: Stress at the belt edges can cause cracks that lead to tread separation. Wedges and belt edge strips help reduce and manage this stress.
Nylon caps: Tread separation is much less likely in tires with nylon overlays protecting the steel belts.
Tread: This is the rubber that meets the road. The extruded rubber compounds balance qualities that provide traction and strength. Manufacturing or design defects can cause the tread and top belt to separate, leading to serious accidents and injuries.
Tread separation: The most frequent types of failure occur when the rubber between the two steel belts separates, leading to the top belt and tread separating from the bottom belt and flying off the tire. This can destabilize the vehicle, resulting in a loss of control.
Load-range E tires: Load range is designated by a letter indicating the carrying capacity of the tire. Typical load ranges are “C”, “D” and “E”. The “E” load range is typically used on large pick-up trucks and SUVs.
Experienced Tire Defect Litigation Attorneys
The attorneys at Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP, have a thorough knowledge of the tire industry, manufacturing practices and governmental safety standards for tire makers. Our legal team has the legal and technical knowledge and financial resources to successfully pursue legal action against major tire manufacturers.
Our tire defect lawyers represent clients in the Los Angeles area and throughout Southern California and the entire state. We also consult with attorneys and clients nationwide. Contact us to if you were seriously injured in an accident caused by tire defects.