Driving is usually a pleasant experience until you hit a snag, like a flat tire. A flat tire could be quite dangerous depending on the speed you are going. The following guide will help you avoid a flat tire and show you how to deal with one.

Preventing a Flat Tire

Believe it or not, studies show that under-inflated and worn tires are major culprits of vehicular accidents. The following guide will help you keep a good eye on your tires:

1. You should pay attention to tire pressure. Under-inflated tires cause unnecessary friction, which heats up your tires. This heat could cause a blowout. You can add air yourself by using an air pressure tester (to make sure you put enough air in). You can purchase an air pressure gauge in your local auto parts store. Check your owner's manual for the right air pressure, as it varies among cars.
2. Look for wear on your tire treads. Too much wear makes it easier for pressure or shocks to blowout your tires. You can use a quarter to test the tread. Simply insert the quarter with Washington's head facing outward into the tire's grooves. Make sure the tread hides Washington's head, and replace your tires if the tread is unable to hide the top of his head.
3. Pay attention to your load, and make sure it does not exceed the load maximum printed on each tire. Heavy load will cause your tires to heat up too much and put you in danger. You will find this load maximum at the center of your tire's sidewall.
4. Avoid hitting potholes and harsh roads. Be sure to avoid glass, metal shards, sharp rocks and other questionable debris on the road.
5. Always keep your regular tire checkups with your auto care specialist.

No matter how much you prepare, a flat tire may still occur and you should be prepared. Keeping the number to your towing company is always a good idea for incidents like a tire blowout.

How To Keep Control Of Your Car With A Flat Tire

The following are a few steps you can use to keep control of your vehicle when you experience a flat tire:

1. You may remember your driving school teaching telling you to keep both hands on the wheel. This is helpful, as it will give you better control over the wheel.
2. Press on the accelerator slightly to keep your speed constant, and keep the wheel centered. Turning during a blowout might put you in danger of a spin out or flip. Don't break right away, as this will make it harder to keep control of your car.
3. Keep the speed constant and within the lane until your car stabilizes. You can then slow down, and start looking for an opportunity to pull to the side of the road.
4. After you are safely parked, call your tow truck company or wait for assistance.

For more information, contact Connolly's Towing Inc. or a similar company.