Don't Blow Up When Your Tire Blows Out

According to experts, there are several important ways to react to a tire blowout.

• First of all, stay calm. Staying calm will help you think clearer and maintain control of a dangerous situation.

• Second - keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. The key is to not jerk the wheel. Drive straight.

• Third - accelerate for a brief period of time. Accelerating stabilizes your vehicle. Other benefits are that it will prevent you from braking and will give you a little, "break," so you can regain your composure. Very gently, ease up on the gas pedal and allow your vehicle to naturally slow. Remember - avoid any sudden movements and maintain a firm grip.

• Next, turn on your hazard lights and start looking for a safe spot to pull over. Avoid pulling over on the left side of the road, where traffic is traveling faster. Try to find an exit or wide shoulder with a level surface. You may start gently braking at around 30 mph. You don't want to be stuck where it will be difficult and dangerous to install your spare or get help (or where it'll be easy to get hit.)

Having a tire blow out sucks. There are many ways to prevent them, though. CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE. According to statistics, this is the main contributing factor to tire malfunctions. And while you're at it, check for any bubbles, uneven wear and the DOT. Make sure

your tires aren't more than about six or seven years old.

Blowouts will happen, though, no matter how careful you are. That's why it's important to always maintain a safe distance between you and other drivers.

Thanks for reading! 'Til next time - stay safe and be good to each other!

Sources:

http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/a9354/what-to-do-when-your-car-gets-a-blowout-15851782/

https://www.defensivedriving.com/blog/how-to-handle-a-tire-blowout/