How To Safely Handle A Tire Blowout

Replacing a blown out tire

According to studies, tire blowouts cause over 70,000 accidents and kill more than 300 drivers every year. Before you get nervous, know that a tire blowout doesn't mean disaster. By following some simple tips, anyone can safely reclaim control after a blowout. 


Tire Blowout Survival

Step 1: Stay calm.
The best thing you can do after your tire blows is nothing. Don't step on the brakes. Don't take your foot off the gas pedal. Don't turn the steering wheel. Any of these actions could make you lose control of your car quickly. Take a deep breath and don't freak out.

Step 2: Drive straight.
You will feel your vehicle going to one side when your tire blows. Hold the wheel tightly. You must withstand the urge to cut the wheel sharply and over correct. Make sure to keep your car going straight.

Step 3: Gently push the gas pedal.
It might sound counter intuitive but accelerate a little after a tire blowout. You doing so aids you in regaining control of your car by sustaining forward momentum. Once you've regained control, come off the gas pedal slowly.

Step 4: Let the automobile slow itself.
A blown tire works like a parachute, innately reducing your speed. Now, you can cut on the emergency lights. Do your best to maneuver the car straight and not turn the wheel.

Step 5: Drop to 20 mph and gently step on the brakes.
When you're down to 20 mph, turn the steering wheel slowly to lead your automobile off the road. When you are securely out of traffic, call for help.


Avoid a Tire Blowout

Often check your tire pressure.
When talking about tire blowouts, prevention is a topnotch survival strategy. Many blowouts are due to incorrect tire pressure. In America, automobiles sold after 2007 come with an electronic tire pressure monitoring system. This tool informs you when your air pressure fluctuates below or above safe levels. 

Don't drive on worn, old tires.
Driving on damaged tires in hot weather is asking for trouble. If you have a hard time remembering to check your tires, you might want to select a set of tires that performs the work for you. 

Top-quality tires and some due diligence can stop many tire blowouts. Call us at Buffalo Roadside Assistance if you need a flat tire service. ​

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