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Have you heard of the Goodyear G159? It is a tire that was originally designed for lower-speed delivery vehicles, but has been used on RVs over the past two decades. And, unfortunately, it has been the cause of many crashes over those years. Yet, the tire was never recalled, thanks to a legal campaign by Goodyear that swept the issue under the rug.
At least 41 lawsuits have been filed against Goodyear over the last 20 years regarding the safety of the G159, and an investigation revealed the defect was linked to at least nine deaths and 34 injuries. But the real numbers are higher. Goodyear admits it has received at least 98 injury and/or death claims related to the G159.
G159 Not Designed for RV Use
The lawsuits have accused Goodyear of selling a tire to RV manufacturers that was not designed to handle highway speed while equipped to an RV. The tire was designed for regional delivery vehicles that should travel no more than 65 mph. However, at least 40,000 G159 tires were installed on RVs between 1996 and 2003.
The tires were prone to heat-induced failure when used at speeds over 65 mph. RV owners reported accidents dating back to 1999 due to tread separations and tire blowouts. But the company’s aggressive attempts to settle the lawsuits and seal legal documents, including testimony and internal data on the tire defect, have prevented the NHTSA from investigating and launching a recall for many years.
However, on Jan. 1 of this year, the NHTSA reported that it was examining the G159 tires used on Class A motorhomes. The agency has said Goodyear is cooperating with the investigation.
“This deadly tire defect should have prompted a recall long before now,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.
Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a defective product and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.
DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.
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