Tread Separation Research Paper

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The Dangers of Tire Tread Separation In 2011, the van Kharka Chhetri was driving hit a median. The vehicle then flipped over, killing Chhetri and a passenger. The evidence verified that this crash occurred due to tire tread separation on one of the vehicle’s rear tires. Michelin North America manufactured the defective tire that caused this crash. Even though Michelin officials knew that there was a flaw in the tire's design, they neglected to correct it. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that each year detective tires cause 8,000 crashes, 10,000 injuries and more than 400 deaths. A DeKalb County Jury awarded Chhetri’s family more than $15 million for causing the fatal crash. A chemical process is used to encourage the tire’s rubber tread to attach to its steel belt. If this chemical process fails, the rubber and steel separate, this is referred to as tire-tread separation. The danger of tire tread separation is that the driver usually loses control because the separation causes the vehicle to over steer. …show more content…

1. Listen for Unusual Noises - Sometimes, a thumping or bumping sound precedes tire-tread separation. If you hear unusual rhythmic sounds as you drive, have your tires inspected. 2. Routinely Examine Your Tires - Always have your tires inspected whenever you have your car serviced and routinely perform a careful visual inspection of your tires. Additionally, feel the treads on each tire. Look and feel for: Damaged, uneven or worn

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