As Texans, we put more miles on our vehicles every year than average in the United States. With as much traveling as we do, we need to maintain the safety of our cars. Poor maintenance on a vehicle can lead to many dangerous consequences, including a blowout.  

No one wants to experience a blowout. It can be frightening, and without proper action, it can cause harm to you and other drivers. Many drivers don’t know how to react to a tire blowout, especially if they have never experienced one. Here are some tips on what to do after a tire blowout.  

What Causes a Tire Blowout? 

It’s a common misconception that tire blowouts are random events. However, they often result from negligence or other preventable causes. Mechanics, manufacturers, city and state officials, and drivers can all contribute to blowouts. 

Tire pressure, whether it be too low or too high, is one of the leading causes of tire blowouts. When your tire is under-inflated, the tire can flex excessively while rotating, creating heat and friction that can lead to a blowout. With too much air in your tires, they don’t have enough flexibility to absorb imperfections in the road, causing them to burst. To avoid this, regularly check your tire pressure to make sure it is within the range recommended for your vehicle. 

Poor maintenance of your vehicle’s tires is another common cause of blowouts. Professionals recommend replacing your tires every 5-6 years or after 50,000 miles. Over time, the rubber can dry out and break down, causing your tires to be less durable. However, they may need to be replaced sooner if you travel frequently. As you drive, the tread of your tires wears down, and a “bald” tire is at high risk for a blowout. If your tires have lost their tread, it’s time for new tires! 

Beyond these two factors, a tire can also blow out from external forces such as hitting a pothole or encountering sharp objects on the road. Sharp or rigid objects can damage the sidewall and disrupt the structure of your tire, causing it to burst. Regular tire maintenance and inspections are indispensable tools in identifying and replacing old or damaged tires, preventing these incidents before they occur. 

How to Handle a Tire Blowout 

Even with the best precautions, tire blowouts can still occur. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s critical to know how to respond safely. Panicking can lead to overreaction, which could make the situation worse. 

  • Avoid slamming on your brakes. Braking suddenly can cause your vehicle to spin out of control. Gradually reduce your speed by slowly taking your foot off the gas. 
  • Keep your hands tight on the steering wheel. Try to steer straight and maintain control of your vehicle as much as possible. 
  • Once your vehicle has slowed down and you’ve regained control, slowly pull over to the side of the road. 

Following these guidelines can help you navigate through a blowout safely, avoiding further crashes or injuries. After moving out of the roadway, there are additional steps to take to get you and your vehicle back on the road safely. 

  • Turn on the hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are stopped on the side of the road. 
  • If you can safely do so, get out of the car and check the damage. If you have a spare tire and a jack, you can swap the tire to get to the nearest auto shop. 
  • If you can’t change the tire or don’t feel safe doing so, it’s best to call for professional roadside assistance. 

If You or Others Are Injured After a Blowout 

In the unfortunate event that a blowout leads to injuries, it’s important to prioritize your health and safety. If you’re in a crash, immediately call 911. Make sure you and anyone else involved are in a safe spot until the police and ambulance arrive. Seek immediate medical attention if necessary. 

If you have been injured in a blowout, please consider talking to a personal injury attorney. Establishing liability in a tire blowout crash isn’t always black and white. An experienced attorney can help gather the necessary evidence to prove negligence, whether it be manufacturer errors or mechanical carelessness, known as breach of duty. Even if they can’t help you file a claim, they may be able to point you in the right direction to help get your life back on track.