On December 5, 2010, five adults were tragically killed on Interstate 95 in Florida when their 1999 Ford Expedition rolled over after a tire blew out and the driver subsequently lost control of the vehicle. Four minors were injured in the crash as well.

According to the Police report, only two of the individuals in the accident were wearing a seatbelt. Florida Highway Patrol Lieutenant Bill Leeper noted that seatbelts do increase passenger safety in some accidents, stating "Seatbelts are very important to keep you secure in the vehicle in the event of a rollover crash or a violent collision; It will keep you stabilized," Leeper said. "However, there are some crashes that occur that a seatbelt will not save you. A lot depends on the speed of the crash and the angle of collision." StAugustine.com, Tire Blamed In Fatal I-95 Crash, 12/07/10

AAA provides multiple safety tips regarding your automobile tires:

• Check your tires regularly.
• Use a tire gauge.
• Inflate your tires to the correct pressure.
• Know when your tires need to be replaced.
• Rotate your tires regularly.

AAA notes that indicators that your tires require maintenance include: side-to-side "waddling" at slow speeds; an increased shimmy / vibration at increased speeds; a sharp pull to the side (misalignment); and weaving / fishtailing.

8newsnow.com, AAA's Tire Safety Tips, 12/08/10

You may want to review this brief, instructional video of how to handle a tire blowout as well.

We hope that you will keep this unfortunate family in your thoughts. We also hope you will consider the above-noted tips for the safety of you and your loved ones. In the unfortunate event that you or a family member sustain a serious injury or death, please remember that it is crucial that you immediately seek the consultation of a lawyer who will walk you through the legal process one step at a time. Under no circumstance should you speak with the insurance company - those whose sole aim is to deny your claim / pay you as little compensation as possible.