A flat tyre never happens at a convenient time or place. But knowing what to do — calmly and correctly — makes all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation.
Step 1: Don’t Panic or Brake Hard
If you feel a sudden loss of control or hear a loud bang, resist the urge to brake sharply. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands, ease off the accelerator gradually, and steer gently in the direction of the skid. Controlled deceleration is far safer than emergency braking with a blown tyre.
Step 2: Move to Safety
Signal and move to the hard shoulder (on a motorway) or as far off the road as possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately. On the A55 or any fast road, your safety is the priority — drive slowly on the flat tyre to reach a safe stopping point rather than stopping in a live lane.
Step 3: Make Yourself Visible
If you have a warning triangle, place it at least 45 metres behind your vehicle (not on a motorway — stay on the hard shoulder behind the barrier). Turn on your hazard lights. If it’s dark, wear a high-visibility jacket.
Step 4: Assess the Damage
Once you’re safe, check which tyre is flat and assess the damage. A slow puncture (often a nail or screw) may allow careful slow driving to a tyre fitter. A blowout or sidewall bulge means the tyre is beyond roadside repair.
Step 5: Spare Tyre or Call for Help
If you have a spare tyre and know how to fit it safely, use it. A space-saver spare is for temporary use only — drive no faster than 50mph and get to a tyre fitter as soon as possible. If you don’t have a spare, or aren’t comfortable fitting one, call a mobile tyre fitter.
Logistic Move covers North Wales 24/7. We come to you — motorway, A-road, car park or driveway. Call 07768 491888.