It can be somewhat stressful to be stranded next to the road with a flat tire. Many drivers, particularly those who have just passed their driving tests, maybe in the dark as to what to do when their car has a flat tire. Therefore, we are sharing a few tips and advice on how to stay safe when this happens to you.
1. Spare Tires
Fewer spare wheels are being made accessible as standard on new vehicles. According to the Automobile Association (AA), many modern cars have a puncture repair kit as opposed to a spare wheel nowadays to save weight and space. In addition, instead of cars coming equipped with a spare tire, many new models might have run-flat tires fitted as a standard. Run-flat tires operate in two different methods – through internal ring support or reinforced sidewalls. The general idea is that such tires are capable of supporting the weight of the car for short periods in time by themselves. If you are having run-flat tires and you suffer a puncture, you shouldn’t travel at high speed for a long distance. Also, make sure they are getting replaced as soon as possible.
2. Safety Comes First
According to the road safety experts, many safety precautions must be thought about in the event of getting a flat. They advise that you shouldn’t attempt to change a tire on the side of the road or the hard shoulder of a motorway since it can be highly hazardous. Instead, it is best practice to pull away or turn off, away from traffic and call for assistance. You can search for cheap tow trucks in Chicago to come and help you, rather than placing yourself at risk. Another great tip is only to change a tire if you can do it effectively without putting others or yourself at risk, alternatively, call a breakdown service.
3. Changing A Tire
If you are knowledgeable about yow to change a flat tire, and you are in a safe position to do the task, then first ensure that all passenger are a safe distance away from the car and carriageway and in a safe position before you begin. Make sure that the car jack is only used on the stipulated jacking points since attaching it in the wrong place can lead to an increased risk of collapsing or damaging the car further. Always very high-visibility clothing or a vest and place your reflective warning triangle a few meters behind the car to warn oncoming traffic. Also ensure that you know the location of the spare wheel, wheel brace, locking wheel nut, and jack before you start. Changing a tire can be a tricky business. In theory, it sounds simple, but in practice, it could be a whole different ball game. That’s why it’s best to call a breakdown service or call a professional if you are not absolutely sure about what to do or if you have a flat in an unsafe place like a bend or a motorway.
