Goodyear Fails to Recall Motorcycle Tires Despite Reports of Fatal Blowouts
Since 2006, at least four people have died and 22 people have been injured due to suspected tire failures involving Goodyear’s Dunlop D402 tires equipped on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Despite these incidents, no recalls have been issued.
Details of the Goodyear Motorcycle Tire Failures
According to Reveal News, Steven Morris, now 59, and his wife, Patricia, were traveling to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in 2008 to celebrate their 26th wedding anniversary when the rear tire on their Harley-Davidson suffered a catastrophic failure. A police report on the accident indicates the blowout caused Steven to lose control of the motorcycle and crash. Patricia Morris did not survive.
The tire that failed was a Dunlop D402 tire manufactured by Goodyear Tire & Rubber.
A review of state and federal court filings and police reports conducted by Reveal found that four other deaths and 22 injuries have been linked to tire failures in Dunlop D402 tires.
Joan Claybrook, a former administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), says the significant number of deaths and injuries “warrants an immediate investigation by NHTSA.”
When contacted by Reveal, Goodyear contended that the tires were safe and pointed to underinflation, overloading, or damage from road hazards as possible causes for the suspect tire failures. Goodyear’s spokesperson added that all death and injury claims are reported to NHTSA.
COMMON CAUSES OF A MOTORCYCLE RECALL
Motorcycles are similar to other vehicles in that there are many different parts and equipment that can end up faulty or manufactured with a defect. Common motorcycle defects include:
- Brakes
- Engine
- Fuel tank
- Fuel line
- Handlebars
- Tires
A small defect can have catastrophic consequences for motorcyclists, who do not have the same protection afforded to them as automobile drivers by a seatbelt and airbag.
INJURIES ASSOCIATED WITH MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
Whether caused by a recalled motorcycle or a reckless automobile driver, motorcycle crash injuries are oftentimes debilitating and nearly always severe.
Serious injuries caused by a motorcycle wreck include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Burns
- Head injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED MOTORCYCLE RECALL AND DEFECT ATTORNEY
If you or a loved one were injured due to a recalled or defective motorcycle, contact Thomas J. Henry immediately. Our experienced vehicle recall lawyers are available 24/7, nights and weekends to evaluate your claim. Our team of legal professionals are ready to take immediate action on your case. You may be entitled to compensation if a manufacturer’s negligence lead to your injuries.
Our firm has offices in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Houston, serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Call us today for a free case review — attorneys are available 24/7, nights and weekends. Call us today for a free legal consultation.
