Tire Blowout While Driving: What to Do to Stay Safe

A tire blowout at highway speed is one of the most dangerous things that can happen while driving. The loud bang and sudden loss of control is terrifying. But your reaction in those first seconds makes all the difference.

What Causes Tire Blowouts?

• Under-inflation: The #1 cause – low pressure creates heat buildup
• Overloading: Exceeding weight capacity stresses tires
• Road hazards: Potholes, debris, curbs
• Age: Rubber degrades over time (replace tires older than 6 years)
• Manufacturing defects: Rare but possible
• Uneven wear: Sign of alignment or suspension issues

How to React: The DO's

1. Stay Calm

Your instincts will tell you to panic. Don't. You have more control than you think.

2. Keep a Firm Grip

Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands at 10 and 2 (or 9 and 3).

3. Don't Turn Sharply

The vehicle will pull toward the blown tire. Gently correct to stay in your lane.

4. Gradually Slow Down

Ease off the accelerator slowly. Let the vehicle slow naturally.

5. Steer Straight

Focus on keeping the vehicle going straight. Small corrections only.

6. Pull Over Safely

Once you've slowed to 20-30 mph, safely move to the shoulder.

The DON'Ts

Don't Slam the Brakes

This is the most common mistake. Hard braking can cause you to spin out or flip.

Don't Jerk the Wheel

Sudden movements can cause loss of control, especially at high speed.

Don't Try to "Fix" It While Moving

Get safely stopped first, then deal with the tire.

After You've Stopped

1. Turn on hazard lights
2. Exit carefully (away from traffic if possible)
3. Set up triangles or flares
4. Assess the damage

If You Can Change It

If you have a spare, jack, and know-how, you can change it yourself. Just ensure you're in a safe location away from traffic.

If You Can't or It's Unsafe

Call for roadside assistance. Our team provides tire changes in safe locations or can tow your vehicle to a tire shop if needed.

Preventing Tire Blowouts

• Check tire pressure monthly (including the spare)
• Inspect tires for wear and damage regularly
• Rotate tires every 5,000-7,000 miles
• Don't overload your vehicle
• Replace old tires even if they look okay
• Watch for recalls on your tire brand/model

What About Run-Flat Tires?

Run-flat tires can be driven on for about 50 miles at reduced speed after losing pressure. But they still need replacement – they're not "self-healing."

We're Here When You Need Us

Dolooma Towing provides 24/7 roadside assistance throughout the Triangle. Whether you need a tire change or a tow, we'll get you back on the road safely.

Tire trouble? Call 1-877-47-PULSE – we respond fast.