Flat tires do not happen as often as they did before steel-belted radials became standard equipment on new vehicles. But flats and blowouts still occur, and they can create serious hazards on the road. Knowing how to respond safely can make the difference between a frustrating inconvenience and a tragic outcome.

Statistics on flat tires and blowouts are not easy to come by, but in 2024 total motor vehicle traffic fatalities were tire-related crashes. And in 2003, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said they were responsible for about 78,000 crashes a year, 10,300 non-fatal injuries, and 414 fatalities. The danger comes in two ways: reduced vehicle control and the risk of being struck by passing traffic while changing the tire.

Handling Your Vehicle

Once you realize a tire has lost most or all of its air pressure, it is important to:

1. Take your foot off the gas pedal and brake lightly to slow down.
2. Grip the steering wheel firmly.
3. Steer toward the side of the road.

Do not panic. Overreacting can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

Your primary goal should be to get completely out of the traffic lanes, whether that means moving onto an exit lane on the freeway or pulling onto the shoulder and coming to a stop. It is even better if you can make it to a parking area, but only if you can do so slowly and safely. The farther you drive, the more damage you may cause to the tire and rim, but it is better to ruin them than risk being hit by another vehicle.

Before you stop, and once you are sure the vehicle is under control, turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you.

Once You’ve Stopped

After coming to a stop, determine whether it is safe to exit the vehicle. If it is not, stay inside with your seat belt fastened and call 911 if you have a phone.

If you can safely leave the vehicle, place reflective triangles or traffic cones behind the vehicle if you have them. If you do not, open the trunk and hood and tie a rag to the antenna or hang it outside a closed window to help signal distress.

Only try to replace the damaged tire with the spare if you are well away from fast-moving traffic and stopped on a paved, level surface. Otherwise, call for roadside assistance or wait for law enforcement to help arrange a tow. If necessary, move farther away from traffic and stay outside the vehicle.

The bottom line is simple. Your safety matters far more than getting back on the road as quickly as possible.