Learn how to handle a tire blowing out whilst driving.
It’s common for motorists to face at least one tire blowout in their time. From wearing down the wheels to not replacing them on time, tires are what keep us on the road, yet are often neglected. If you ever face a tire blowing out, there are certain things to know to avoid danger, damage, and potential death!
There are four main important points to instill into your memory so that you know how to handle a tire blowout.
- Don’t brake or turn. At all! This can cause you to spin out of control.
- Accelerate to let your car slow down gradually.
- Maintain control and stay in your lane.
- Slowly ease off the road to a safe space.
- Activate your emergency flashers to alert others that you’re a potential hazard.
Although the first and second step are counter-intuitive, sudden braking will cause the vehicle to spin out of control and turning could prove fatal. You should accelerate because it stabilizes the vehicle in your lane, and it prevents you from turning or braking. You will not gain speed due to the drag of the failed tire.
After a tire blowout, put out reflective cones or triangles if you have them, and replace the tire with the spare. If you’re unsure how, call for roadside assistance.
The best way to prevent a blowout is to keep your tires at the proper inflation pressure. Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always replace your tires when they are worn out. Set the tire pressure to at least what the vehicle maker recommends, so three or four pounds per square inch (psi) higher is better than one psi low.
For the reliable auto insurance that protects your vehicle on and off the roads, contact the professionals at Gee Schussler Insurance, serving Orland Park in Illinois.
