Immediate Action: Tire Blowout
A tire blowout can be a frightening experience, especially when driving with your kids. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related crashes cause nearly 11,000 accidents annually. Knowing what to do immediately can prevent injuries and save lives. Here’s a step-by-step guide that can help.
1. Stay Calm and Maintain Control
- DO NOT slam on the brakes. This can make your vehicle spin out or lose control. Instead:
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel.
- Gradually ease off the accelerator to slow down.
- Avoid sudden movements. Keep your car moving straight, even if you hear loud noises or feel the vehicle pulling to one side.
2. Signal and Move to Safety
- Once the car is stable:
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Look for a safe place to pull over, such as the shoulder of the road, a parking lot, or an emergency lane. If forced to use the shoulder of the road, be sure to as far away as possible from traffic.
- Don’t stop in the middle of the road unless absolutely necessary. A moving vehicle is easier for other drivers to spot.
3. Make Your Vehicle Visible
After pulling over:
- Turn on your hazard lights if you haven’t already.
- Use reflective triangles or road flares if you have them, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.
4. Call for Help if Necessary
If you can’t change the tire safely:
- Call roadside assistance or a towing service.
- Use your smartphone’s emergency app (many automakers and roadside services offer these) to request help.
5. Change the Tire Only If It’s Safe
If you feel confident and conditions allow:
- Gather your tools: spare tire, jack, and lug wrench.
- Refer to your vehicle’s manual for instructions.
- Ensure children are far away from traffic while you work.
6. Monitor Your Children
- If you have kids in the car, reassure them that everything is under control. Keep them seated with their seatbelts fastened.
7. Prevent Future Blowouts
Once the situation is resolved, check all your tires for proper inflation and wear. Remember:
- Under-inflated tires are a leading cause of blowouts, per the NHTSA.
- Replace tires with low tread or visible damage immediately.
- You should inspect your tires monthly and prior to long road trips for any damage,if you are unsure about tire safety, seek a professional.
Final Thought
Experiencing a tire blowout can be stressful, but preparation and quick thinking can make all the difference. Practice staying calm, and always keep your roadside emergency kit stocked.
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