A tyre failure on a motorway is one of the most dangerous places to stop, so safety comes before the car. Get as far left as you can, leave the vehicle by the left-hand doors, and get behind the barrier well away from traffic. Do not try to change a wheel on a live motorway.
The moment it happens
- Keep control, if it's a blowout, don't brake hard; ease off and steer straight.
- Get left. Aim for the hard shoulder or an emergency refuge area.
- Pull as far left as possible and turn the wheels to the left.
- Hazards on, and sidelights on in poor visibility.
Getting out safely
- Exit by the left-hand doors, away from traffic.
- Get behind the safety barrier and well up the verge.
- Take everyone, and any pets, with you. Leave animals' leads on.
- Don't stand near the car or attempt repairs roadside.
Smart motorways
Many motorways have no permanent hard shoulder. Use the orange emergency refuge areas where you can, and follow the signs. If you can't reach one and the car stops in a live lane, keep seatbelts on, hazards on, and call 999 if you can't safely exit.
Then call for help
Changing a wheel beside fast traffic is far more dangerous than waiting. Call your breakdown provider or a mobile tyre service. Our 24-hour mobile fitters reach motorway callouts across London and Birmingham and fit a replacement safely. Book a rescue or call our line.
