It’s one of the most common issues you can have on the road – one minute, you’re driving normally, the next, you hear a loud boom and your car is veering to the side because of a tire blowout. While a tire blowout can be a nerve-wracking experience, knowing how to handle it can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous accident. Here’s a step-by-step guide from Barnett’s Towing to help you manage a tire blowout safely, ensuring you can get back on the road.
Stay Calm
Above all else, stay calm. Panic can lead to erratic driving, and this will only increase the likelihood of an accident. Take a deep breath and focus on controlling your vehicle.
Don’t Step on the Brake
Contrary to instinct, do not immediately step on the brake when you realize you have a blowout. Braking hard can cause your wheels to lock up, leading to a loss of vehicle control. Instead, keep the vehicle moving forward and make for the side of the road.
Accelerate Slightly and Steer Straight
When a tire blows out, your vehicle might pull strongly to one side. Counteract this by gently accelerating and steering as straight as possible. This slight acceleration helps you regain control over the vehicle and keeps it moving in a straight line.
Begin to Slow Down
Once you’ve stabilized your vehicle, start slowing down by gently lifting your foot off the accelerator. Avoid abrupt speed changes. Instead, let your vehicle gradually decrease in speed as you prepare to pull over.
Turn on Your Emergency Lights
Activate your emergency flashers as soon as you can. This signals to other drivers that you are experiencing difficulties and they need to give you space. You’ll need to ensure your safety and the safety of other road users around you.
Steer Towards the Right-Hand Lane and Pull Over
Carefully navigate your vehicle towards the right-hand lane. Keep your movements smooth and steady to avoid swerving. Look for a safe place to pull over—ideally a flat area far from the flow of traffic. Remember, your goal is to stop in a location where you can safely address the blowout without posing a risk to yourself or other drivers.
Change the Tire or Call for Help
Once safely parked, assess your situation. If you are well-versed in changing tires, have the necessary tools, and feel it’s safe to do so, proceed with changing your tire. However, if you’re unsure about changing the tire yourself or if the environment doesn’t permit safe tire changing (like on a busy road or under poor weather conditions), it’s time to call for professional help.
Barnett’s Towing can offer not just towing services but also roadside assistance for situations just like this. It’s safer to rely on professionals who can ensure that your vehicle is handled safely and that you are back on your way with minimal stress.
Tire Blowout? Call Barnett’s Towing for Towing Service in Arizona Today
At Barnett’s Towing, we want to help you handle a tire blowout as safely as possible. If you’re ever dealing with a blown out tire, don’t hesitate to contact us right away. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our towing service!
