Tips to stay safe when your car’s tire pops on the road.
No matter how conscientious a driver you are and how well maintained your vehicle is, driving emergencies can and do happen. When these emergencies do occur, such as your tire popping while driving, being prepared and knowing how to handle the situation will help you to avoid danger. For most drivers, a tire blowout is a nightmare. Because this can happen very suddenly, it’s particularly important that you know to react quickly and effectively so that you avoid accidents.
The most important thing to do is to stay calm. Other drivers on the road may notice your tire blowout and move away from your vehicle, or even stop to help. Follow these steps to handle the situation safely:
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Do not make sudden or violent movements.
- Slowly remove your foot from the accelerator, as a sudden release of pressure may disturb the vehicle’s balance.
- Do not press on the brake pedal. Although this is an instinctive reaction, doing so will make the force pulling the vehicle to one side even stronger.
- Let the vehicle lose speed gradually. Start to make your way over to the side of the road.
- Start to brake gently when the speed is below 25-30 miles per hour.
- Pull over to the side of the road where it is safe to stop and you are out of the way of traffic.
- Turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers that you have stopped.
- Exit your vehicle if you are certain you are safely off the road. Put out reflective cones or triangles if you have them.
- If it is not safe to change the tire where you are, or you are unsure how, call for roadside assistance.
Even if this never happens to you (and we hope it doesn’t!), knowing what to expect from a tire blowout and how to handle it could come in handy if you see another driver having this problem. One of the best ways to protect your vehicle and finances is with quality auto insurance. Contact us at Reata Insurance Group to get started on your policy today
