Michelin Wins Unanimous Defense Verdict in $20 Million Arizona Tread Separation Lawsuit

GREENVILLE, S.C., Nov. 23, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- In a unanimous verdict handed down on Nov. 19, a jury in Lake Havasu City, (Mohave County) Ariz., found in favor of Michelin North America, Inc., on all claims relating to a product liability lawsuit filed by the plaintiff, Kimberly Allen.

The three-week trial was heard in Arizona State Court.

In the lawsuit against Michelin, Allen and her attorneys alleged that a defective Uniroyal tire -- manufactured by Michelin at its plant in Ardmore, Okla. -- was the reason for a single-vehicle rollover accident on Oct. 8, 2011, in Arizona. The plaintiff demanded $20 million in compensatory and punitive damages, claiming a faulty tire separated, caused the accident and resulted in severe injuries.

Michelin successfully showed that the tread separation on the Uniroyal Tiger Paw AWP preceded the accident and was caused by a number of factors, including an improperly repaired puncture days before the accident as well as chronic under inflation of the tire. The jury determined there was no proof of product liability, and Michelin was found faultless on all claims.

Michelin North America appreciates the jury's decision in this case, which also highlights the critical importance of proper inflation and safe tire maintenance. Michelin believes in the quality of its tires and the painstaking efforts the Company takes to ensure their safety. The Company will continue to vigorously defend its reputation and quality in cases that it knows are without merit.

SOURCE Michelin