What to Do When a Tire Suddenly Blows Out at High Speed?
2 Answers
When you realize a tire has blown out, grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands and try to keep the vehicle moving straight in its original direction. If the vehicle has already started to veer, avoid overcorrecting, as it may be difficult to regain control. Below is more relevant information: Solutions for a Sudden Tire Blowout: While maintaining control of the steering, quickly shift to a lower gear to use the engine's braking effect to slow down the vehicle. Before the engine braking effect has sufficiently reduced the speed, avoid using the brakes to stop, as this may cause the vehicle to skid sideways or roll over. Apply the brakes gently to slow down gradually, then pull over to the side of the road safely. Turn on the hazard lights immediately and place a warning sign to prevent collisions from following vehicles. Do not jerk the steering wheel to change direction abruptly. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this could lead to loss of control or a rollover due to a shift in the vehicle's center of gravity. Causes of Tire Blowouts: Tire leaks: If a tire is punctured by a nail or other sharp object but not immediately ruptured, it may gradually lose air, eventually leading to a blowout. Overinflated tires: At high speeds, tire temperature and pressure increase, causing the tire to deform and reducing its elasticity. This increases the dynamic load on the tire, making it more susceptible to internal cracks or blowouts upon impact. This is also why blowout accidents are more common during summer.
I've experienced a tire blowout on the highway before. While driving, the car suddenly started shaking violently and the steering wheel kept pulling strongly to one side. The most important thing is not to panic. Hold the steering wheel firmly to prevent excessive deviation. The car may feel out of control, but just stay steady and maintain strong grip strength. Then gradually release the accelerator - don't slam on the brakes suddenly as that could cause the car to flip. Use gentle pumping motions to brake lightly several times and slow down. When you see the shoulder or emergency stopping area, slowly move over and come to a complete stop. Immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn others after stopping. After getting out, check if any other parts are damaged before calling for assistance. It's recommended to check tire pressure and wear every three months normally, and do extra inspections before long trips to prevent accidents. There are many unexpected situations on highways - handling them safely can save lives, so never impulsively brake hard.
