Table of Contents
The Unexpected
Imagine you are on the way home from a long day of work and all of a sudden- you hear a loud pop. Your car starts steering to one side and now you’re panicking.
You hear stories of these emergencies, but you never thought it could happen to you. What do you do next?
Driving can be unpredictable, and emergencies can happen when you least expect it.
Whether it’s a flat tire or you’re experiencing brake failure, it’s crucial to be prepared to handle different types of situations to ensure your safety and to take important precautions to get back on the road.
At Rollo’s Tires and Wheels, we believe preparation is the key to navigate safely through these emergencies and to even possibly avoid them.
Throughout this blog, we’ll cover some essential tips for controlling common roadside issues. You’ll learn what to do in various scenarios and even preventive measures you can take.
By the end, we know you’ll feel more confident and be ready to tackle any emergency thrown at you.
Flat-Tire
In the United States, about 220 million flat tires occur each day, meaning one tire puncture happens every seven seconds! Â
Studies show that 81 percent of Americans have had a flat tire and only 74 percent know how to handle the situation.Â
We can safely assume that this emergency is the most common situation and can quite literally happen to anyone.
If a flat tire occurs:
- Safely Pull Over
- Turn on Hazard Lights
- Apply the Parking Brakes
- Install the Spare Tire
- If you don’t have a spare tire or cannot do it yourself, contact Roadside Assistance immediately.
To avoid a flat tire, we recommend regularly checking the tire pressure to make sure your tires aren’t over or under inflated as this can increase the risk of flats and reduce your vehicle’s handling capabilities. It’s also vital to partake in regular maintenance and replace tires when needed.Â
At Rollo’s Tires and Wheels, our experts can identify potential issues before they become problems, ensuring your tires are always in optimal condition.
Blow-Outs
If you’ve ever experienced a tire blow-out, you know how terrifying it can be. Blow-outs happen suddenly and most drivers give in to panic, which can be dangerous if not handled correctly.Â
Having the knowledge to know what to do can keep you safe on the road and help you regain control of your vehicle:
- 1. Stay Calm and Steer your Vehicle Straight
- 2. Slow Down without Braking Abruptly
- 3. Pull Over to a Safe Spot
People often confuse blow-outs with flat tires, but there are many differences, especially in how to prevent these scenarios.
Like flat tires, it’s crucial to ensure your tires are in good condition because even the slightest bit of damage to the tire can more likely cause a blowout.
Tires too have a lifespan, meaning old and worn-out tires are more prone to blowouts.
Make sure to make regular inspection checks at your local tire shop and replace your tires when needed.
Engine Overheating
When drivers think of an engine overheating, most assume the car just needs a break and everything will go back to normal. In reality, an overheating engine is a serious issue and can even lead to a fire.
Recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond can prevent costly repairs and keep you safe on the road.
To handle an engine overheating:
- Turn Off the A/C and Turn On the Heater
- Pull Over and Turn Off the Engine
- Check the Coolant Levels
- If the coolant level is low, you can add a 50/50 mix of coolant and water
- Do not open the radiator cap, as it can burn you
- Call for Roadside Assistance
To ensure that your engine doesn’t overheat, it’s important to regularly check your coolant levels and that the coolant is in good condition.
Whether that’s checking for leaks or ensuring your coolant system is functioning properly, it’s best to replace your coolant according to your manufacturer’s recommendations.
As much as you can check yourself, it’s always in your best interest to get your vehicle serviced regularly.
These routine checks can help prevent overheating issues and ultimately keep you and your vehicle safe on the road without a fire hazard.
Brake Failure
When in a brake failure situation, panic is your worst enemy. You’ll be surprised at how some drivers react and what they do.
Try your best to take control of the situation and avert your focus to what you can do in the moment rather than imagining the worst-case scenarios.
When in brake failure:
- Turn your Hazard Lights on and Honk
- Pump the Brake Pedal Rapidly
- Use the Emergency Brake Slowly
- Shift to a Lower Gear
- Look for an Escape Route (USE GUARDRAILS)
- Once Slowed Down, Steer to Safety
- Call for Roadside Assistance
As much as brake failure is not as common as other emergencies it’s still very important to prepare for anything and be educated on how to control and possibly prevent it.
You can start by incorporating regular brake inspections in your maintenance routine, therefore catching possible brake issues before it has the chance to happen.
Skidding
Skidding can happen when the vehicle’s tire loses traction with the road, causing the vehicle to swing.
Elements like weather (snow, rain, ice..) or even sharp turns and oversteering can cause this emergency to occur.
It’s crucial to keep these instances in mind to avoid skidding, but if this does happen to you, drivers should:
- 1. Slow down and Release the Gas
- 2. Steer in the Direction You Want to Go
- 3. Avoid Over Correcting or Braking Hard
- 4. Stay Calm
Most people have experienced skidding in their lifetime, but there are many precautions to avoid skidding that drivers aren’t aware of.
Firstly, ensure your tires have good tread. Tread ensures better grip on the road and reduces the likeliness of skidding.
This also means it’s just as important to check your tires regularly and replace them when necessary.
Another way to prevent skidding would be investing in appropriate tires for various weather conditions, as well as driving according to road conditions.
Essencial Tips
Emergency Kits
Being prepared for any driving emergency includes having a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Essential items include a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, jumper cables, flashlight, first-aid kit, basic tools, and reflective triangles.Â
Even in severe situations, you can even carry water, snacks, a blanket, or even a portable charger. Stay prepared for any emergency and invest in one today!
Regular Maintenance Tips
Throughout this whole blog, the most common recommendation we gave was doing regular maintenance checks because it really is rooted in the way drivers take care of their vehicle systems.Â
Schedule routine checks for your tires, brakes, and coolant system to ensure everything is in top condition.Â
At Rollo’s Tires and Wheels, our expert technicians are ready to help keep your car running smoothly. Visit us for a comprehensive inspection and peace of mind on every drive.
Conclusion
Being prepared for driving emergencies can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe. From handling flat tires and brake failures to managing engine overheating and skidding, knowing how to react can prevent accidents and costly repairs.
Regular vehicle maintenance and having an emergency kit are key steps to staying prepared. For expert advice and top-notch service, visit us at Rollo’s Tires and Wheels. Drive confidently, knowing you’re equipped to handle any situation that comes your way.
Disclaimer
The tips and advice provided in this blog are intended for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, driving emergencies can vary widely, and individual circumstances may differ. Rollo’s Tires and Wheels is not liable for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog. For specific guidance tailored to your vehicle and situation, please consult with a qualified automotive professional. Drive responsibly and prioritize safety on the road.
