Flat tires are not just a pain, but they can also be dangerous. However, tire blowouts can be even more risky, especially when on the highway. Therefore, it’s important you know how to respond to them properly…
Tire Blowouts: Respond Properly
Blowout vs. flat
At first, you might think tire blowouts are similar to normal flat tires. However, they’re actually a bit different. When a tire goes flat, it usually does so due to a leak. This leak slowly lets the air out from the tire, and causing it to go flat.
A blowout, however, occurs almost immediately. Instead of a slow release of air, there’s a massive burst of it which comes out the tire. Usually, this results in heavy damage to the tire itself, leaving it irreparable. This is in contrast to flats, which can many times be fixed by a patch and refilled with air.
Recognize a blowout
Tire blowouts also feel very different from flats. You’ll hear a pop, and feel your car immediately drop down to one side. If a front tire pops, then you also might hear a flapping sound afterwards. The steering wheel might also jerk in your hands when this happens.
Still, it’s important to keep control over your car. The last thing you want to do is just slam on the brakes, especially while in traffic. Instead, slow down by taking your foot off the gas while putting your hazards on. Then, make your way off the road as quickly as you can.
Blowout prevention
The best way to prevent tire blowouts is by doing tire maintenance. According to the NHTSA, over 11,000 tire-related accidents happen each year. One good thing to check is tire pressure. If your tire pressure is too high or too low, it could increase the chances of a blowout.
Tire tread is also important to check. More wear on the tread of the tires makes it easier for something to puncture them and cause a blowout. One good test to use is the penny test. Take a penny, and place it headfirst into the tread groove. If you can see Lincoln’s head, then you’ll know the tread is too worn out.