ABC's 20/20 Sheds Spotlight on Tire Retailers Selling Defective Tires As New
The TV Program, 20/20 recently did a story on retailers of tires selling their inventory believed to be deteriorating, as new. While the tires may be technically unused or "new", the lengthy amount of time that the tires sit on the shelf awaiting sale leads to decay, drying out and deterioration of various tires components, including the threads, making the tires as a whole, unsafe.
The most disturbing part of the story is that over a hundred people have died as a result accidents involving tires that appeared to be new and in good condition, but in actuality, were unsafe. Consumer Experts have advised consumers to exercise extreme caution using any tires older than six years and to look at the "cryptic code" engraved in the sidewall of the tire to determine the exact year the tire was made.
On a positive note, big tire makers such as Michelin, Bridegstone/Firestone and Continental recommend that consumers not use tires older than ten years even if the tires look like they are in good shape.
In an effort to make a profit, it is believed by Consumer Experts that some of the big tire-makers are selling tires older than that recommended by consumer groups. Goodyear is believed to be one of the tire retailers selling aged tires as new to consumers according KGO-TV in San Francisco. Wal-Mart and Sears are also believed to be included as retailers selling older than recommended tires.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of an aged tire, I would invite you to visit my website, www.samlevine.com or contact my office, Sam Levine, Attorney at law.
