Emergency situations can happen at any time. That’s why it’s important for you and your family to know what to do when these situations arise. Knowing how to handle your automobile during these times can put your mind at ease and help keep your family safe on the road.

Tire Blowouts
A tire blowout, which is characterized by the loud noise of your tire bursting and the sudden loss of air, can happen without warning. Taking the right actions can help you safely maintain control of your vehicle and maneuver your car to a safe stop. Here are some tips to help you make the right decisions:

Do slightly accelerate. This will keep the vehicle momentum constant and will compensate for the pulling of the vehicle towards the flat tire.

Do keep the steering wheel held straight and firm.

Do put on your hazard lights. Once the vehicle is under control, slow down and when safe, move to the side of the road out of traffic.

Don’t panic.

Don’t step on the brake.

Don’t abruptly release your foot from the accelerator.

Don’t jerk or overcorrect the steering.

When Your Brakes Fail
No one wants to think about their brakes failing while driving. It can be a scary situation. Having the knowledge to handle this type of emergency and keep your family safe in the process is priceless.

What to do:

• Take your foot off the gas pedal.
• Quickly pump your brakes to try to use any residual pressure in the brakes.
• Shift into a lower gear, release the clutch pedal (for manual transmissions) and apply the emergency brake.
• If your automobile has an automatic transmission, simply apply the emergency brake.
• Try to ease the car to the side of the road safely or look for something to rub against. A fence, guardrail or bushes would work. If possible, select something that will give way when you hit against it to reduce damage to you and the car.