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It’s a sound and a sensation no driver wants to hear or feel: the boom of a tire blowout. Then an experience no one likes: an abrupt loss of steering control if the destroyed tire is in the front.
Tire blowouts are more common and more dangerous than you might think. In honor of June’s designation as National Tire Safety Month, here are some important things to know about tire blowouts—and how to handle one if it happens on your drive.
Driving on underinflated tires is one of the main causes of blowouts. Here are some steps you can take to keep your tires in good shape and minimize your risk of a blowout.
Regular tire maintenance can help you steer clear of a blowout. Learn about keeping your tires in good shape.
Read moreAbout 33,000 tire-related crashes happen annually, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. At least 2,000 of those are blowout-related. AAA recommends you follow these steps:
1. Firmly hold the steering wheel with both hands, maintain speed if safely possible, and slowly release the accelerator.
2. Look in the direction you want the vehicle to go and steer in that direction.
3. Once you have the vehicle under control, continue to slow down and safely pull off the road.
4. Place vehicle in park, turn on your hazard lights and call for help.
Making sure your tires are properly inspected and inflated is vital to their longevity, which will save you time and money—and help keep everyone in the vehicle safe. Use a tire gauge to test the air pressure yourself, or visit a trusted mechanic and ask for assistance.
Car care
Blowouts can be loud, costly and dangerous. Make sure your tires are in good shape.
