When you’re driving down the road and experience a blowout, it’s definitely an extremely scary moment. What many drivers don’t know is that there are things you should and should not do in order to ensure that you stay safe whenever this happens. Blown tires are frustrating and frightening, but your safety is most important. Read on to learn more about the things you need to do if you ever experience a blowout so you can stay safe on the road and prevent accidents or injuries.
Keep Calm and Stay Straight
If you have a blowout, drive straight down your lane, and allow the drag of your deflated tire to slow the vehicle down. Gradually, you should be going slower than a speed of 30 mph. This will keep you from losing control. This process is the same for all types of cars including minivans, SUVs, and even 18-wheelers. If you maintain your lane and allow the drag to take over, you shouldn’t worry about veering or losing control over your steering. A tread separation is slightly different than a blowout. This happens when the steel-reinforced part of your tire becomes separated from the rubber of the tire, and can cause serious damage. Even in the case of tread separation, you should follow the same rule and stay in your lane, allowing the drag to slow you down.
What Not to do During a Blowout
Your car will naturally want to veer to one side if you have a blowout. But you can keep things safe by trying your hardest to maintain the steering wheel in a straight position. Never turn the steering wheel, especially if you have a blown rear tire. Even a slight turn can cause your vehicle to spin out, which can be extremely dangerous to you and to other drivers on the road. It may not seem natural, but you must stay as straight as possible and even press the accelerator for a quick second after the blowout occurs. It doesn’t matter what kind of car you have, the drag of that failed tire will keep you at a slow speed.
The reason for the quick accelerator push? It helps to stabilize your car in your land, and it psychologically prevents you from trying to turn or brake. Once you remove your foot from the accelerator, you should be going slow enough to easily maneuver to the side of the road. Make sure your tires are all properly inflated and check levels monthly. Get regular alignments. These are the best ways you can avoid a blowout and extend the life of your tires.
For all your vehicle maintenance and repair needs, call United Auto Care in Flowery Branch, GA today!
