Safety Tips for Changing a Tire on a Busy Highway
Stuck with a flat on a busy highway? Follow these critical safety steps to protect yourself and your passengers while getting back on the road.
Pull Over to a Safe Location
If you notice a flat tire, immediately signal and move your vehicle to the furthest shoulder or off the highway entirely. Never attempt to change a tire in moving traffic. If you cannot find a safe spot, request roadside assistance immediately rather than risking your life on the shoulder.
Make Yourself Visible
Once stopped, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of your presence. If you have reflective triangles or flares, place them behind your vehicle to provide extra warning to oncoming traffic. For more tips on emergency preparedness, browse our blog for helpful guides.
Assess the Situation Before You Start
Before exiting the vehicle, check your surroundings to ensure it is safe to step out. If you are on a narrow shoulder with heavy, fast-moving traffic, it is far safer to remain inside your vehicle. It is often better to find towing providers near you than to risk standing in a high-speed lane.
Execute the Tire Change Safely
If you must proceed, keep your back to traffic as much as possible while working. Ensure your parking brake is fully engaged and use a wheel chock or a heavy object to block the opposite tire. If at any point you feel unsafe, step away from the vehicle and wait for professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to change a tire on the side of a highway?
Changing a tire on a highway shoulder is inherently dangerous. If the shoulder is narrow or visibility is poor, you should stay in your vehicle and call for professional roadside assistance.
What should I do if I don't have a spare tire?
If you lack a spare, do not attempt to drive on a flat tire as it will destroy your rim and cause loss of vehicle control. Call a professional towing service to transport your vehicle safely.
How can I alert other drivers of my breakdown?
Always activate your hazard lights immediately upon slowing down. Using reflective triangles or flares placed at least 50 feet behind your vehicle will significantly increase your visibility.
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