Driving is a daily activity for many of us. Sometimes we take for granted a fully functioning vehicle and may be ill-prepared for a mishap like a tire blowout. According to the NHTSA, there were 562 fatalities in 2022 due to tire related accidents, highlighting the significance of the situation.
It’s crucial to know how to handle such a scenario safely and confidently to reduce the chances of a serious accident. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate through it without worry. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when you experience a blowout while driving, from handling the car, to changing the tire, and driving with an emergency spare tire.
Stay Calm and Keep Control
At the moment you realize you have a blowout, the most important thing is to keep calm and maintain control of your vehicle. A sudden loss of tire pressure can cause your car to pull strongly to one side, but don’t panic. A common mistake is overcorrecting for the sudden change in direction. For example, the blowout may cause your car to pull to the right, so you over-correct by whipping the steering wheel left, causing a loss in traction. This reaction can lead to collisions and may necessitate help from a car accident lawyer in Albuquerque. Instead, firmly grip the steering wheel and avoid slamming the brakes. Gradually reduce the accelerator while maintaining a firm grip on the wheel, applying smooth steering inputs. Try to keep your vehicle under control and in a straight line until you can safely pull over.
Assess the Situation
Once you have regained control of your vehicle, assess the situation. Check your surroundings for any hazards, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles. Try to safely maneuver your car out of the middle of the street to the side of the road. Use your turn signal or hazards to indicate your intentions to other drivers, and if possible, aim for a flat, straight stretch of road to park your car.
Change the Tire
If you’re comfortable and it’s safe to do so, you can attempt to change the blown-out tire yourself for your vehicle’s spare. Follow these steps:
Find a Safe Location
Ensure you’re parked on a level surface away from traffic. Engage your parking brake and turn on your hazard lights.
Gather Tools and Spare Tire
Locate your jack, lug wrench, wheel lock if your vehicle is equipped with one, and spare tire. These are usually located in the trunk or under the floor mat in the trunk of your car.
Loosen Lug Nuts
Before lifting the car, use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the blown-out tire. Loosen them just a little; you’ll fully remove them once the car is jacked up.
Lift the Car
Position the jack under the frame near the flat tire. Find the jacking points under your vehicle, usually marked near the wheel well on the pinch weld. Raise the car until the blown-out tire is off the ground.
Remove the Tire
Fully remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the blown-out tire.
Install the Spare Tire
Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs and hand-tighten the lug nuts in a cross bolt pattern until the wheel isn’t moving around on the studs.
Lower the Car
Carefully and slowly lower the car back down to the ground and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench in a cross pattern.
Test the Spare
Ensure the spare tire is securely attached and inflated to the recommended pressure before driving.
Driving on an Emergency Spare Tire
Emergency spare tires, also known as compact spare tires or donuts, are designed to be temporary solutions. They have limitations in terms of speed and distance, so it’s important to drive cautiously and get your full-sized tire replaced as soon as possible.
Adjust Your Driving
Spare tires have a lower speed rating than regular tires, typically around 50-55 mph. Drive at a reduced speed and avoid sudden maneuvers.
Limited Distance
Spare tires are not designed for long-term use or high mileage. Drive to the nearest tire shop or service station to have your full-sized tire replaced as soon as you can.
Be Mindful of Handling
Spare tires have different handling characteristics than regular tires. Be cautious when cornering or braking, as they may not perform as well as your regular tires.
Get Back on The Road
Experiencing a tire blowout can be unsettling, but knowing how to handle it can make all the difference. By staying calm, keeping control of your vehicle, and following these steps to change a tire or drive on a spare tire, you can safely navigate through a blowout situation and get back on the road with confidence. Remember, safety always comes first, so if you’re unsure or uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, don’t hesitate to call for roadside assistance.
