It usually happens when you least expect it. Say, you’re running late, or you have a carload of kids, or you’ve decided to take that back road, or the weather is just downright crummy, then it happens... a flat tire.
First and foremost, getting a flat tire while driving is an alarming scenario. Following a few simple guidelines will allow you to remain in control while pulling your vehicle to a safe spot before assessing the flat.
- Keep calm and continue to look down your intended path of travel.
- Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and concentrate on a straight path.
- Ease off the accelerator prior to braking gently.
- Once you are in control of the vehicle and can maintain a slow pace, steer the car off the roadway.
- While finding a parking lot or another safe area to change the tire is ideal, sometimes it is necessary to use the shoulder. In this case, try to find the flattest surface possible and angle the car away from traffic.
- Before you step out to assess the damage, place the car in park and set the parking brake. For those of you with manual transmissions, keep the car in first gear or reverse. Also, be sure to check for traffic before opening your door.
At this point, take a few breaths and remember the steps and suggestion from this infographic prepared by Primer.
Getting back on the road safely is your main goal, folks. Leave the speed records for the NASCAR pit crews. Flat tires may be a nuisance, but with a bit of preparation and patience, you’ll be on your way. You may even consider adding an inflation kit for flat tires to your vehicle emergency kit.
