How to Handle a Rear Tire Blowout While Driving a Motor Vehicle?
2 Answers
When a rear tire blows out, the driver should increase attention, control the steering wheel, gently press the foot brake, and repeatedly tap lightly to allow the vehicle to continue coasting. After traveling a certain distance, the vehicle will naturally come to a stop. The driver should then turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind and ensure to place a warning sign. Below are specific measures to avoid tire blowouts in motor vehicles: 1. Avoid Emergency Braking: During long-distance or high-speed driving, sudden acceleration and braking should be avoided as much as possible, as these actions reduce the internal "capacity" of the tire, accelerate tire wear, and increase instantaneous pressure, leading to a blowout. 2. Control Tire Pressure: It is most appropriate to reduce summer tire pressure by about 10%. During summer, high temperatures cause road surface temperatures to rise, easily increasing tire pressure. Excessive tire pressure can accelerate tire wear and lead to blowouts. 3. Proper Pressure Reduction: When cooling and reducing tire pressure, allow the tire to cool naturally. Avoid methods such as splashing cold water on the tire, as this can cause cracks and shorten the tire's lifespan.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have encountered quite a few rear tire blowouts. The key is not to panic. Once you hear a loud noise or feel the rear of the car sway, immediately grip the steering wheel tightly and don't let go, as a rear tire blowout makes the vehicle unstable but not as violently as a front tire blowout. Gradually release the accelerator to let the car slow down on its own—avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can easily cause the car to spin out of control. Gently apply the brakes to gradually reduce speed until you can safely pull over to the side of the road. Then, immediately turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and place a warning triangle at least 50 meters behind your vehicle. If you know how to change a spare tire, go ahead and do it; otherwise, wait for a tow truck. It's advisable to check your tire pressure and tread wear monthly—tires that are too thin or have incorrect pressure are more prone to blowouts, so regular checks can help reduce risks. A blowout on the highway is even more dangerous, so it's safest to move to the hard shoulder as soon as possible and avoid stopping in the traffic lane.
