Having a tire blowout while you are on the road is a scary and dangerous event. It is crucial to keep your wits about you in order to drive your car to safety. Being prepared and learning a few helpful techniques can help you avoid a disaster if you ever have to drive on a flat tire.
Grip the steering wheel tightly as soon as you sense that a tire has ruptured.
Refrain from panicking and remember to breathe.
Scan the road for the nearest and safest place to exit the road. This may be the shoulder if you are closer to the left lane or it may be an exit if you are in the right lane.
Maneuver the car smoothly and cautiously to your exit point. Be sure to use your lane-changing signals as appropriate.
Drive the car completely off of the road, allowing room to open the car door without interfering with traffic.
Take your foot off of the gas and allow the car to slow down naturally with the road's friction. Do not slam on the brakes.
Push the brake pedal gingerly until the car comes to a complete stop.
Put the car in the park position, engage the emergency brake and turn off the car.
Turn on your hazard lights to indicate an emergency situation to passing drivers.
