Can You Drive Short Distances with a Flat Tire?

[StTaylor]

A flat tire should not be driven even for short distances, as a deflated tire indicates critically low pressure, making continued driving unsafe. Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tire and the road, preventing the tire from heating up properly during driving. Emergency measures for a flat tire: First, turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation. If safe, pull over to the side of the road, avoiding intersections and no-parking zones. Preventive measures for tire blowouts: Regularly check if the tire tread has reached the wear indicator (groove depth) warning line—tires should be replaced immediately once this mark is reached. Check tire pressure at least every two months; do not rely solely on visual inspection of tire sagging. If low pressure is detected, identify the cause of the leak. Frequently inspect tires for damage, such as punctures or cuts, and repair or replace damaged tires promptly. Schedule regular wheel alignment checks for your vehicle, as misalignment can cause irregular tire wear, shortening the tire's lifespan.

[McAndrew]

I've experienced this situation before—suddenly getting a flat tire just a few kilometers away from a repair shop. Although I was anxious, I knew I absolutely couldn't drive on it. Driving on a flat tire would cause the rim to grind directly against the road, wearing through the tire sidewall in minutes and ruining it completely. Even worse, rim damage could cost thousands to repair, and if it happened at high speed, losing control would be extremely dangerous. That time, I immediately pulled over and called for roadside assistance and a tow truck. Although it cost a bit more, it saved my rim and tire from further damage. A leaking tire is like a broken bone—forcing yourself to walk on it only makes the injury worse. Never take this risk just to save a little trouble.

[VonAustin]

It's best not to drive on a flat tire, even for just a few hundred meters. From my experience, when a tire is flat, the entire weight of the car is pressing down on that one tire. Driving in this condition causes the rim to grind directly against the ground, and the rubber can be cut by the rim, leading to the tire being completely ruined. Not only that, but the rim can also become deformed. Additionally, handling becomes significantly worse, making the car prone to skidding and losing control when turning, and braking distances increase. Once, I tried to move my car just a short distance within my neighborhood, and that small stretch of road completely destroyed a new tire. So now, whenever I encounter this situation, I call for a tow truck—it's safer, more convenient, and doesn't damage the car.

[StRuby]

Never drive with a flat tire. First, the rim will directly rub against the ground, and it won't take long for the rim to deform, which is extremely expensive to repair. Second, the unsupported car body will tilt, putting extra stress on the other three tires and increasing the risk of a blowout. Most dangerously, you'll lose all control—the steering wheel will feel loose, the brakes may fail, and even a small pothole can cause the car to spin out. I once saw my neighbor's car with a flat tire slide onto the curb while turning. The correct approach is to stop immediately, turn on the hazard lights, and use the spare tire or wait for assistance.