How to Handle a Tire Blowout on the Highway?
2 Answers
The methods to handle a tire blowout on the highway are: 1. Turn on the hazard lights and slow down gradually, then pull over to the right side of the road after ensuring it's safe; 2. Set up a safety warning sign about 150 meters behind the vehicle; 3. Place the jack on the designated position of the chassis support and loosen the screws diagonally using the wrench; 4. Hook the jack with the support bracket, attach the wrench to the end of the bracket, and rotate it clockwise to lift the tire off the ground; 5. Remove the screws, take off the tire, and replace it. The reasons for a tire blowout on the highway are: 1. Overloading or speeding; 2. Tire pressure being too high or too low; 3. Tire scratches and sidewall bubbles; 4. High-temperature environments.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I've encountered tire blowouts on the highway several times. Experience tells me that the most crucial thing is to stay calm and not panic. The first step is to firmly grip the steering wheel to stabilize the car's direction—never slam on the brakes, as this can easily lead to loss of control. Then, immediately turn on the hazard warning lights to alert other vehicles, gradually reduce speed, maintain control of the steering, and move to the emergency lane as soon as it's safe to do so. After coming to a complete stop, check the traffic flow through the rearview mirror before exiting the vehicle to ensure safety, and place a triangular warning sign about 150 meters behind the car to prevent rear-end collisions. Next, assess your ability and conditions for changing the spare tire; given the high speeds and risks on highways, I usually avoid changing tires myself and instead prioritize calling for roadside assistance or alerting the police via phone, while waiting in a safe location. Preventing blowouts is essential—I've developed the habit of checking tire pressure monthly to ensure it's normal, inspecting tread wear and any cracks, and avoiding tire aging or overinflation that could lead to blowouts.
