• At the first sign of tire trouble, grip the steering wheel firmly.
• Do not slam on the brakes.
• Let the car slow down gradually. Take your foot off the fuel pedal.
• Work your vehicle toward the emergency lane, or if possible toward an exit.
• If it is necessary to change lanes, signal your intentions to drivers behind and do so carefully. Watch the traffic around you closely.
• Steer the car slowly and let it roll off the road into a safe place. Do not stop the car in traffic and risk a rear-end or side collision with other vehicles.
• Turn your emergency flashers on.
• It is important to have the car well off the payment and away from traffic before stopping, even if proceeding to a place of safety means rolling slowly with a bad tyre flapping.
• One off the road, put out reflectorised triangles behind your vehicle to alert other drivers. If you know how to change a tyre, have the equipment and can do it safely without being near traffic, change the tyre as you normally would.
• Remember that being safe must take predence over whatever other concerns you may have. Changing a tyre with traffic whizzing past can be nerve-wracking and dangerous. It is best to get professional help if you have a tyre problem or other breakdown on a highway.
• Raise your hood do police or tow truck operators will know that you need help.
• Do not stand behind or next to your vehicle. If possible stand away from the vehicle and wait for help to arrive.
• Highways are patrolled regularly and have special "call-for-help" phones. It is not advisable to walk on the highway. If you see a source of help and are able to reach it on foot, try he direct approach by walking but keep as far as possible from traffic.

The important things to remember when dealing with a flat tyre on the highway are:

• Do not stop in traffic.
• Get your vehicle completely away from the road before attempting to change the tyre.
• Change the flat tyre without placing yourself in danger.
• Get a qualified mechanic to check your car after having a flat tyre to be sure there is no residual damage from the flat tyre.

Article contributed by AAM

Click here for more 'Car Detailing Tips and  Techniques'

Go to Main Page