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What to Do if Your Tire Blows Out While Driving

Tire blowouts can be incredibly dangerous for drivers and pedestrians on America’s roads. As a reliable provider of car insurance in Philadelphia, PA, we like to create blogs that inform, educate, and inspire our customers. 

Below, you’ll find some basic information about how to handle a tire blowout safely.

Tire Blowout Statistics

Unexpected tire blowouts can happen anytime, and anywhere. These accidents are frustrating and pose a severe safety hazard. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tire blowouts lead to thousands of fatalities, injuries, and car crashes every year. Maintaining control of the vehicle and remaining calm are two crucial steps to safely recovering from a tire blowout. 

Keep off the Brakes

Immediately slamming on the brakes can make matters much worse. There may be a vehicle behind yours that could crash straight into the back of you, potentially causing a fatal accident.

Slightly Increase Acceleration

Although this sounds counterintuitive, a slight increase in acceleration can help to maintain control of the vehicle in the event of a blowout. When you first notice that your tire has blown, try to keep driving straight ahead instead of veering in any other direction. Remember, other cars may not have seen your blowout and will not be prepared for erratic behavior.

Tightly Grip the Steering Wheel

To maintain control over your car, keep your hands in the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock position and retain a firm grip on the steering wheel. This will help you to retain a level of control over the direction the car travels in and keep you safe from danger.

Gently Apply the Brakes

As the vehicle slows down to a speed of around 30mph, gently apply the brakes.

Indicate a Right Turn

Switch your right turn signal on and prepare to pull over. Never pull over on the left of the road as this is the most dangerous place to stop.

Pull Over the Car and Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Your hazards are there to send a signal to other motorists and let them know your vehicle is experiencing difficulty. Turn them on to make the road a safer environment for all cars and people.

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