![]() |
Bridgestone Deflated by Tire Separation | |
Subject | Externalities |
Topic | Market Failure, Regulation, and Public Choice |
Key Words | Deaths, injuries, criminal charges |
News Story |
Recently, Bridgestone's Firestone tires have been found to be at risk to fail. The tread may separate from the tire. The problem emerged overseas in the Middle East, Asia, and South America before becoming evident in the U.S. Tread separation problems have occurred mainly with Ford Explorers. The number of deaths caused by the failure of Firestone tires keeps mounting. By September 1, 2000, 88 deaths in the U.S. and 46 in Venezuela had been tied to the tires, as well as 250 injuries. The dangerous types of tires have been recalled by Bridgestone. Although it says that the problem is a tire issue, not a vehicle issue, Ford is replacing the tires on its Explorers. Both companies have expressed their sorrow at the consequences of the tire deficiencies. Venezuela's consumer protection agency is recommending that criminal charges be filed against both Bridgestone and Ford. (Updated October 1, 2000) |
Questions |
1. 2. 3. |
Source | Earle Eldridge and David Kiley, "88 deaths linked to recalled tires," USA Today, September 1, 2000. |
Return to the Market
Failure, Regulation, and Public Choice Index
©1998-2001 South-Western. All Rights Reserved webmaster |
DISCLAIMER