The thing about tires is that though they are durable, they are not invincible. They can go flat, rupture or blow at any time. If something happens on a drive, then you could face an instant and frightening safety risk. What should you do if one of your tires blows while on the road?

Why Tires Blow

A blowout occurs when your tire suddenly deflates in the middle of a drive. Many hazards might cause this to happen, some visible, some invisible. They might include:

• Having the wrong tire pressure in your tires. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during periods of extreme heat and cold. Extreme weather can cause tire pressure to fluctuate and put undue stress on the wheel and tire.
• Existing damage to tires. Most tires begin to wear out over time. Older tires might have small weaknesses that might worsen until they eventually ruptures. Most drivers must replace their tires every 4 – 6 years.
• Sharp objects in the roadway. Any item, from a discarded nail to scrap metal debris could puncture a tire and cause a catastrophic failure.

Though many cars have check tire pressure lights, blowouts often occur suddenly and without warning. As a result, you could be on any roadway in any amount of traffic when it happens. Blowouts frequently cause wrecks, including chain reaction wrecks and pile ups.

What to do if a Blowout Occurs

No one wants to face a blowout. However, if it happens to you, your priority is to remain calm. What you want to do is get to a safe stopping place as soon as you can.

• If you can still control the car, turn on your hazard flashers, but do not slam on the brakes.
• Park in the nearest parking lot, if possible. Otherwise, move as far onto the shoulder of the road as possible. Keep your hazard lights flashing.
• Check the damage. Make sure there is no smoke or fire around the tire (though some burnt rubber is likely not a big deal). Some blowouts only necessitate a tire change. In more severe cases, the vehicle might have damage to the wheel or body.
• Do not continue to drive the car. Even if the tire only partially deflates, then it is no longer structurally sound.

If your car has sustained damage, then call your car insurer. They can tell you if your policy will help cover the damage. Many auto insurers offer roadside assistance services if you included them on your policy. Even if the flat tire is your only damage, they can dispatch a repairman or tow directly to you. You’ll be able to get on your way faster and with minimal hassle.