If a tyre blows out at speed, the instinct to brake hard is exactly wrong. Hard braking or swerving can spin the car. Instead, hold the wheel firmly, keep the car pointing straight, lift off the accelerator and let the car slow on its own before easing onto the hard shoulder or verge.
The step-by-step response
- Grip the wheel firmly with both hands, the car will pull towards the blown tyre.
- Keep straight. Don't yank the wheel or brake sharply.
- Ease off the accelerator and let the car slow gradually.
- Steer gently to a safe place once you're slow enough.
- Hazards on, and get out of the car away from traffic if you're on a fast road.
Why braking is dangerous
A blown tyre is already dragging that corner of the car. Add hard braking and you risk locking up and losing control. Smooth inputs keep the car stable while it scrubs off speed.
Once you've stopped safely
On a motorway, get behind the barrier and follow hard-shoulder safety advice. Don't attempt a roadside wheel change on a live carriageway, it's too dangerous. Call for help instead.
Prevent the next one
Most blowouts trace back to under-inflation, worn or old tyres, or hidden damage, see causes and prevention. Keep pressures correct and tyres in good condition.
Blown a tyre? We'll come to you
Our burst tyre service and 24-hour callouts reach you across London and Birmingham, usually within the hour, and fit a replacement on the spot, no tow truck needed. Book a rescue.
