Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Co. v. Martinez
Texas Supreme Court
977 S.W.2d 328 (1998)
- Written by Kheana Pollard, JD
Facts
Roberto Martinez (plaintiff) was attaching a 16-inch tire to a 16.5-inch rim when the tire exploded, severely injuring Martinez. There was a warning label on the tire stating never to use a 16-inch tire with a 16.5-inch rim. Martinez brought suit against Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company (Goodrich) (plaintiff) under a design-defect theory. At trial, testimony revealed that tire design included a tire-bead system the was prone to breaking and was known to lead to tire explosions. Other manufacturers had switched to an updated bead design that was safer and did not have the same issues. Testimony revealed that the alternative bead design would have prevented Martinez’s injuries. The trial court found in favor of Martinez, and the court of appeals affirmed. Goodrich appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Phillips, C.J.)
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