A tire blowing out while driving is one of the most dangerous situations you can find yourself in. The faster you’re running, the more serious the accident can get. This can result in either a medical emergency or, worse, a tragic accident. However, if one is lucky, this can just end in having to call for roadside assistance, and a tow truck in Bolingbrook, IL, is all one will need.
We’ll have to touch on the three stages that comprise a tire blowout. First, are the possible causes that you should guard against. The second would be how to conduct oneself inside the vehicle in such an eventuality. The third is what to do after a tire blowout.
What Causes a Tire Blowout?
Exercising caution against a tire blowout minimizes the chance of it happening. This is not guaranteed though. That’s why it’s called an accident or an unlucky incident that occurs unexpectedly. So, what are the possible cases that could lead to it?
• Low Tire Pressure – This is the most common cause. An underinflated tire will bulge under a vehicle’s weight and cause it to bounce up and down when driven at a fast speed. This will cause a high-level friction heat that can weaken the tire and lead to it bursting. It’s best to check the tire pressure regularly.
• Overloading – If you load up the car with too many passengers or your pickup with more cargo than it should be carrying, your tires might be overstrained by the weight even with the right tire pressure. The best thing to do is to only carry the right number of passengers and bring the right amount of load.
• Warmer months – Blowouts are more likely to happen from July to September. Add to it long trips at faster speeds, and there’s a greater chance of one of your tires giving way. Hot highways during summer months are equally unsafe elements to include in the mix.
• Road Hazards – Hitting a pothole, slamming against a curb, or running over a nail that’s positioned to do the most harm are some of the dangers that could lead to a wheel exploding. As long as I’m not cruising at top speed, my only worry would be a lowly flat tire and finding a tire service near me.
What to Do in a Blowout?
This part will have to be stated very simply so that retention is ensured. There are five things to remember:
#1. Don’t Slam on the Brakes!!!
#2. Grip the Wheel and Steer as Straight as Possible
#3. Slowly Let Go of the Gas
#4. Flash Your Turn Signal and Pull Over
#5. Turn On the Hazard Light
What Now?
Once you’ve finally ground to a halt, you can already think of relaxing and lowering your blood pressure. All the write-ups would always start with “What to Do in a Blowout” and the advice to stay calm. That’s just not how it works. It’s at this point that you can finally do it.
• Look Around Before Alighting – Make sure it’s safe before getting out of the car. Exit with care to ensure you’re not in danger from passing traffic. When you do go out, have your car keys and phone with you.
• Set Up Your Reflectorized Triangle – Having the hazard light turned on is not enough. Anything that can be added to it to make your vehicle more visible and as a warning to other motorists is advisable.
• Switch those Tires – You can now change your damaged tire. Keep in mind that most spare tires are not for permanent use and should be replaced with a flat tire once it’s fixed.
Need Help Changing Tires?
In case you don’t have a spare tire, don’t know how to change tires, or maybe need towing, you can call for roadside assistance or a tow truck in Bolingbrook, IL. We at Classic Towing are the people you can ask for help with your towing needs. We will give you a hand with a blown-out wheel or dead battery. We’re open round the clock. You can reach us by filling out the form on our website or by calling us at 630-392-6844.