How to Keep a Car Under Control After a Blow Out

Flat tires are commonly the result of a slow leak from a puncture or leaky valve stem. Having a tire blowout while you are driving is a much more unusual event, particularly if you properly maintain your tires. Blowouts are also much more dangerous due their unexpected nature. Should you experience a blowout, here is what to expect and how to react to bring your car safely under control.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Vehicle with Seat Belts

How to Keep a Car Under Control After a Blow Out

1. Determine which tire has blown out. A blowout on a front tire will create a drag which will pull the vehicle toward the side of the blowout. For a front tire blowout proceed to Step Two. A blowout on a rear tire will create a fishtail skid in the direction of the blown out tire, especially if you are on a curve. For a rear tire blowout proceed to Step Five.
2. Remove your foot from the accelerator. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands in the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions.
3. Steer to maintain your position in the lane you are in. Engage your right turn signal. Check traffic visually. When it is safe to do so steer the vehicle onto the shoulder of the road.
4. Brake gently until you bring the vehicle to a complete stop well out of traffic. Engage your hazard lights. Change the blown out tire in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
5. Remove your foot from the accelerator. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands in the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions.
6. Maintain control of the vehicle by turning the steering wheel against the direction of the skid. Maintain your position in the lane.
7. Engage your right turn signal. Check traffic visually. When it is safe to do so steer the vehicle onto the shoulder of the road.
8. Brake gently until you bring the vehicle to a complete stop well out of traffic. Engage your hazard lights. Change the blown out tire in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Tips & Warnings

• To guard against tire failure, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for rotation, inspection, and especially air pressure.
• A blowout will cause a bumpy and noisy ride, but you will still be able to steer the vehicle.
• Always engage seat belts before operating a vehicle, even on short trips.
• Never slam on the brakes during a blowout. This will cause you to loose control of the vehicle.