A sudden tyre blowout — especially at motorway speeds — is one of the most frightening events a driver can experience. The vehicle pulls sharply to one side and the noise is alarming. Most accidents that follow a blowout are caused not by the blowout itself, but by the driver's instinctive reactions. Knowing what to do in advance is crucial.
Do Not Brake Hard
The instinct to stamp on the brakes is the most dangerous reaction. Hard braking on a blown tyre can cause the vehicle to spin or overturn. Instead, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands and maintain your current speed or even accelerate very slightly for a moment to stabilise the vehicle.
Steer Straight and Gradually Reduce Speed
Allow the vehicle to slow naturally while steering smoothly to maintain your lane. Only once the speed has dropped significantly should you apply gentle, progressive braking. Signal and move to the hard shoulder or roadside as safely as possible.
Stay Safe at the Roadside
Once stopped, switch on your hazard lights immediately. Exit the vehicle from the side away from traffic and move well behind the barrier or up the embankment. Do not attempt to change a tyre on a live motorway hard shoulder — call a professional. For emergency mobile tyre fitting in West Yorkshire, Pegasus Mobile Tyres operates 24/7 and can reach most locations within the hour.
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