Experiencing a tire blowout while driving is one of the most stressful situations a driver can face. Blowouts happen suddenly and can cause you to lose control of your vehicle if you don’t react correctly. Knowing what to do—and how to prevent them—can make all the difference in staying safe on the road.
How to Handle a Tire Blowout Safely
Stay Calm and Stay in Control
The first rule of handling a tire blowout is to remain calm. Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel and avoid making any sudden movements.
Do Not Slam on the Brakes
Braking suddenly is one of the worst things you can do—it can make your vehicle swerve. Instead, slowly ease off the accelerator and allow your car to decelerate naturally.
Keep the Vehicle Straight
Steer gently to keep your car moving straight. Overcorrecting or swerving increases the risk of losing control.
Signal and Move Off the Road
Once you’ve slowed down, use your turn signal and carefully guide your vehicle to the shoulder or a safe spot away from traffic.
Turn On Hazard Lights
Hazard lights alert other drivers that you’re in distress, which is especially important if your tire blowout occurs at night or during poor weather conditions.
Preventing a Tire Blowout
While it’s crucial to know how to respond, prevention is just as important. Regular maintenance significantly lowers your risk of a blowout.
- Check Tire Pressure: Underinflated and overinflated tires are more likely to fail. Use a gauge monthly.
- Inspect Tread Depth: Worn-out tires have less grip and are more vulnerable. Replace when tread reaches 2/32 inch or less.
- Look for Damage: Cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall are red flags for a future tire blowout.
- Avoid Overloading: Carrying more weight than your vehicle allows puts extra stress on tires.
When to Call for Help
Sometimes changing a tire yourself isn’t safe or possible. Call roadside assistance if:
- You don’t have the proper tools or a usable spare tire
- You’ve never changed a tire before and aren’t confident
- Your car is in a dangerous location, such as a busy highway or blind curve
Your safety should always come first.
Regular Tire Checks at Valley Automall
Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid a tire blowout. At Valley Automall, our service specialists provide tire inspections, replacements, and service specials to keep you safe and road-ready.Call us at (702) 570-2257 or schedule a checkup online to make sure your tires are in top condition before your next trip.
