Car Crash Tire Failures and Other Accident Causes
Your vehicle’s tires: They’re one of the most important safety features, yet many drivers don’t recognize their role in road safety until it’s too late. In this blog, we look at how tires can lead to road accidents, strategies for handling tire failures, and other strategies for minimizing your risk of crashing.
Why Do Tire Problems Cause Crashes?
Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, making them vital for safe driving. When they fail, results can be catastrophic. Here’s how tire problems can lead to accidents.
Poor traction: Worn-out tires significantly reduce their ability to grip the road, making it hard to steer, stop, or accelerate effectively. This is particularly hazardous in adverse weather conditions. For example, you don’t want to be caught on slick icy roads without sufficient tread on your tires.
Blowouts: Tire blowouts can be startling and cause drivers to overreact or lose control. They often occur due to improper inflation, overloading, or tire wear. In Arizona, where temperatures can soar during the summer, overinflating your tires can lead to a blowout as the heat increases the pressure.
Hydroplaning: Worn tires can’t disperse water effectively, leading to hydroplaning, which is when the car slides uncontrollably on a thin layer of water. This loss of control can be extremely dangerous, especially at high speeds.
How to Deal With Tire Problems While Driving
Prevention is always the best strategy, so be sure to follow these tire maintenance guidelines. If you do run into a tire-related issue while you’re on the road, here are some tips to handle it safely.
If Your Tire Blows Out:
Stay Calm: Don’t panic. A calm approach is essential for handling a blowout safely.
Maintain Your Course: Grip the steering wheel firmly and keep your vehicle pointed straight. Try not to make sudden or sharp turns.
Do Not Brake Suddenly: Avoid the instinct to brake hard. Sudden braking with a blown tire can lead to loss of control.
Carefully Press the Gas: It may seem counterintuitive, but gently pressing on the gas can help you regain control of the vehicle. If that doesn’t stabilize the vehicle, release the accelerator and allow your car to gradually slow down.
Pull Over Safely: Once you’ve regained control, signal and move to the side of the road or a safe area. Turn on your hazard lights.
Call for Assistance or Change the Tire: If you’re able to change the tire yourself, do so safely. If not, call for roadside assistance.
If You Start Hydroplaning:
Do Not Panic or Brake Hard: Sudden braking or sharp turns can cause more loss of control.
Ease Off the Accelerator: Gradually lift your foot off the gas pedal to help regain traction and control.
Steer in the Direction You Want to Go: Gently steer in the direction you want your car to travel. If you start skidding, steer into the direction of the skid to regain control.
Wait for the Tires to Regain Traction: As your vehicle slows, your tires will eventually make contact with the road again and regain traction.
Proceed with Caution: Once you have control, continue driving at a reduced speed and be alert for further wet road conditions.
Other Common Causes of Crashes & Mitigation Strategies
Tires certainly aren’t the only culprits. Other common causes of car accidents include:
Distracted driving: This includes using a cellphone, eating, or other activities that take your attention off the road. Always focus on driving and minimizing distractions.
Speeding: High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of crashes. Always follow the posted speed limit, slowing down as necessary according to road conditions.
Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times. Never drive under the influence and always plan to have a designated driver.
Weather conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice can all lead to accidents. In bad weather, drive slowly, keep extra distance from other vehicles, and use your lights.
Running red lights and stop signs: This reckless behavior can lead to severe T-bone collisions. Always obey traffic signals and be cautious at intersections.
Tailgating: Following too closely doesn’t leave enough room to stop in an emergency. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Fatigue: Driving while tired can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Take regular breaks on long trips and rest if you feel drowsy.
Want more tips on how to stay safe on the road? Register for a driver’s education course and get the knowledge you need for a safer ride.
