What to Do When a Commercial Truck Tire Blows Out

Jul 30
2 min read

A commercial truck tire blowout is loud, sudden, and dangerous. Staying calm and responding correctly can help the driver maintain control and move the truck to a safer location.

1. Keep a Firm Grip on the Steering Wheel

Hold the steering wheel with both hands and keep the truck pointed straight. Avoid sudden steering movements.

2. Do Not Slam on the Brakes

Hard braking can make the vehicle more difficult to control. Ease off the accelerator and allow the truck to slow gradually.

3. Activate Your Hazard Lights

Turn on your emergency flashers immediately so nearby drivers know something is wrong.

4. Move to a Safe Location

When traffic and road conditions allow, carefully move the truck as far away from moving traffic as possible.

Try to stop on:

A wide shoulder
A parking lot
A truck stop
A rest area
Another level, stable location

Avoid stopping near curves, hills, narrow shoulders, or areas where approaching drivers may not see you.

5. Stay Aware of Traffic

Do not stand beside the damaged tire or between the truck and moving traffic.

Never crawl underneath a truck on an active roadside.

6. Identify Your Location

Before calling for service, gather as much information as possible:

Highway or road name
Direction of travel
Nearest exit
Mile marker
Nearby business or landmark
Truck and trailer information
Tire position
Tire size, when known

7. Call a Commercial Mobile Tire Service

A mobile commercial tire technician can bring the equipment and replacement tire directly to your location, eliminating the need to tow the truck to a shop in many situations.