When there is no clear reason for a crash, you need to look at all the little details. One of these is the tires on each vehicle.
If your tires are bald, the other driver may argue that it prevented you from stopping as fast as you should have. You can do the same with them. If you can see that their tires were overly worn or at an incorrect pressure, you could argue that it affected their ability to handle the car and contributed to the crash.
When tires are a factor in a crash, it does not excuse the driver. Every driver has a duty to check their tires are fit for purpose before setting off. That applies regardless of whether they own the vehicle or not. Anyone that hires a vehicle or drives one for their employer must still check the tires daily.
What is the correct tire pressure?
It depends on your vehicle and where you are. Check the vehicle handbook for information. Remember that too hard can be just as dangerous as too soft:
- Overinflated tires put less rubber in contact with the ground, increasing the risk of losing control on slippery surfaces. They are more likely to explode in hot weather and less able to soften bumps in the road, which could again lead to a loss of control
- Underinflated tires are at higher risk of punctures, blowouts or coming off the rim.
If injured in a crash with another vehicle, you need to investigate all possible factors that contributed to it. Only then can you piece together an argument for the full amount of compensation you deserve.