Can You Change a Spare Tire on the Highway?
2 Answers
You can change a spare tire on the highway, but it must be done in the emergency lane. When a motor vehicle breaks down on the highway and must be stopped, the driver should control the speed, observe the traffic conditions in front and behind the vehicle, turn on the right turn signal, and move out of the travel lane as soon as possible, stopping in the emergency parking strip or on the right shoulder. At this point, the spare tire can be changed. Below is relevant information about stopping in the highway emergency lane: 1. Emergency Lane: The emergency lane is designated for temporary parking in case of emergencies, waiting for rescue, or during traffic disruptions caused by incidents like accidents. It plays a crucial role in rescuing the injured, quickly handling accident scenes, and ensuring timely restoration of traffic flow—it is the 'lifeline' of the highway. 2. Situations Where Stopping or Occupying the Emergency Lane Is Not Allowed: Situations such as vomiting, needing to use the restroom, or breastfeeding a child should be addressed by stopping at the nearest parking area or service area on the highway, but the emergency lane must not be occupied.
That time when I had a tire blowout on the highway was really terrifying. I immediately turned on the turn signal and slowly moved to the emergency lane. Just as I was about to change the spare tire myself, I saw cars whizzing by in the rearview mirror, and the whole car was shaking. I quickly called for roadside assistance. The tow truck driver told me that the emergency lane was only a little over two meters away from the main road, and the airflow from passing trucks could easily sweep a person away. I've learned my lesson now—whenever I have a tire blowout on the highway, I immediately turn on the hazard lights, set up the warning triangle, and move behind the guardrail to wait for help. Life is much more important than saving a few hundred bucks on towing fees, especially at night when visibility is poor—you have to be extra careful.
