Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

GLEN AVON - Two children very tragically died Monday when a Mitsubishi Montero SUV loaded with eight passengers overturned on eastbound Highway 60, the Press-Enterprise reported. The vehicle was travelling from the Los Angeles area heading to a Fourth of July outing at Lake Perris when the vehicle overturned after an apparent tire blowout near Pyrite Street. According to news accounts, the vehicle overturned at about 9:45 a.m. Two children, ages 6 and 14, died at the scene of the crash. The six surviving passengers were transported to area hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to major. The CHP reported that only three passengers, including an infant in a child carrier, were properly seat belted. No one in the rear seat appeared to be wearing a seat belt.

Cause of the Highway 60 Accident

The CHP stated that the Montero SUV would be inspected and witnesses would be interviewed as part of their investigation. Officers at the scene ruled out alcohol to be a factor in the crash. It was reported that it appeared the driver slammed on the brakes and turned sharply after the tire blew out. It is unclear what caused the tire to blow out.

Tire Blowout Personal Injury Liability Issues

Tire blowouts can have a number of causes, including deferred maintenance, underinflation, cargo overloading, and tire manufacturing defects. If the tire blowout is determined to be caused by a defective tire, the injured victims and their family members of the deceased victims may consider filing a product liability personal injury or wrongful death claim against the tire manufacturer. Because claims against tire or vehicle manufacturers are complex and difficult, it is important for injured victims to work with an experienced and knowledgeable California personal injury attorney. A lawyer who has represented numerous victims of SUV rollover accidents resulting from tire blowouts can advise victims and their families of their legal rights and best course of action following an accident should they wish to pursue a personal injury or wrongful death claim.