Flat Tires and Blowouts
The main thing to remember when you have a blowout or a flat (to a lesser extent) is to remain calm and don't jerk the steering wheel in response to noise or one side of the car dropping down. Tests involving blowouts have shown, that in almost all instances is a driver simply drives straight ahead, he or she will maintain control and be able to avoid loosing control.
If one of your tires blowout or you think you have a flat:
- Grip the steering wheel tightly with both hands and steer straight ahead.
- Use emergency flashers and horn to warn other drivers.
- Work your way to an exit or off the roadway to a safe location.
- Slow down gradually. Lift your foot from the accelerator slowly but don't apply the brakes untill you are almost stopped.
- Park the vehicle well off the pavement before stopping. You can drive on a flat as long as you take it easy. The tire is most certainly ruined, so don't worry about damaging it.
- Avoid driving farther than just off the roadway, since the rim can be damaged by prolonged use without a tire.
