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How to React in the Event of a Puncture on the Highway: Stay Safe and Take the Right Steps 🚗🛞
A tire puncture on the highway can be frightening and dangerous, especially when you’re traveling at high speed. But staying calm and knowing what to do can make all the difference between a safe resolution and a risky situation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to react in the event of a highway puncture, so you can protect yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road.
🚨 1. Stay Calm and Keep Control
The first thing to remember: do not slam on the brakes. A sudden stop can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
Instead:
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands.
- Gradually release the accelerator to let the car slow down naturally.
- Avoid sharp movements—try to steer gently.
🛑 2. Signal and Move to Safety
As soon as you feel the car losing air pressure or wobbling:
- Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.
- Look for the nearest shoulder or safe spot on the right side of the road.
- If possible, exit the highway at the next off-ramp for a safer environment.
Pull over as far from traffic as you can—avoid stopping on curves or near guardrails.
🔧 3. Assess the Situation Safely
Once stopped:
- Keep your hazard lights flashing.
- Apply the parking brake.
- If it’s safe, exit the vehicle from the passenger side—never the driver’s side near traffic.
- Place reflective warning triangles or flares about 50–100 feet behind your vehicle if available.
Never attempt to change a tire if the car is too close to traffic or on uneven ground. Your safety comes first.
📞 4. Call for Help
If you’re unable or it’s unsafe to change the tire:
- Call roadside assistance (AAA, your insurance provider, or a roadside emergency service).
- If you’re in a rental car, contact the rental company’s emergency line.
- Use emergency call boxes if available (in some countries, highways have th
