One of the scariest things among drivers is the tire blowing out.
Most of the time, the panic makes the matter worse, especially amongst inexperienced drivers.
Why not, given the loud bang, sudden jerk, and that strange pull to one side?
It is also saddening that tire blowouts are among the leading causes of road accidents.
Given all these facts, can you drive a trailer with a blown tire?
Yes, you can drive a trailer with a blown tire, but it is vital to determine whether it is the right call.
However, depending on your situation, it can also be a bad idea, thus narrowing it down to a personal judgment.
The bottom line is that there are times when continuing driving might be the best option despite a blown tire.
On the other hand, it may be wise for you to stop driving after the tire blows.
Some things can help you determine whether to drive or stop following tire blowouts.
They include the condition of other unaffected tires, the distance to your destination and the weight of the load.
Sometimes, the safety of the area where the tire blowout occurs also determines whether to stop or continue driving.
Learn more about a blown tire, including how to avoid it in the first place and what to do if it occurs.
What Happens When a Trailer Tire Blows Out?
Most people assume a flat tire and a tire blowout are the same.
However, unlike a flat tire, a blowout makes the car tire explode.
This explosion leaves behind debris, and it is noteworthy that they are usually dangerous.
The blowout also causes a sudden pull to one side.
Since the weight goes to the side with excellent tires, it gets immensely overloaded suddenly.
These issues and the panic that most drivers experience after such a blowout usually lead to daily accidents.
Avoid travelling under such circumstances for a long distance or using the typical speed to ensure the overloaded side isn’t ruined.
Preferably, pull over as soon as it happens and change it if safe.
What Are the Causes of a Blown Tire?
Identifying the causes of a blown tire can make a huge difference since it can help you prevent it sometimes.
These causes include the following;
Road Conditions
Road hazards such as potholes are one of the causes of a tire blowing up.
The impact on your tire upon hitting such hazards often compresses its internal elements, thus damaging it.
Sometimes, the impact is severe enough to slice and damage the tires’ rubber and fabric, thus leading to a blown tire.
Hot Weather
The excess heat during this weather is enough to make your tire blow out.
After all, the roads get hot under these conditions, causing the tires to overheat and blow out eventually.
It is common among tires handling heavy loads and their old counterparts.
Besides, it is common for people to travel more when the weather is hot, thus increasing the chances of tire blowouts.
Defective Tires
The world isn’t perfect, and the tire manufacturing industry isn’t an exception.
Therefore, a certain fraction of the tires manufactured are usually defective.
It will be unfortunate if you end up buying such a tire.
You should also be on the lookout in case of tire safety recalls concerning the product you settled for.
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can also help you gather information regarding your car.
Slow Leaks
Since a tire isn’t as fragile as a balloon, a puncture by a nail or screw, among other sharp objects, may go unnoticed for a while.
Consequently, the tire starts leaking air slowly, thus deflating eventually.
That deflation and the small puncture are a recipe for disaster since they are enough to cause a tire blowout.
Heavy Loads
Ensure that you never exceed your car’s Vehicular Weight Rating.
Otherwise, you will exert too much pressure on its tires, thus increasing the chances of them blowing out.
Incorrect Tire Replacement
Ensure that the tire size and type you settle for when replacing yours is right for your vehicle.
Fortunately, your car’s manual will tell you the right type and size to avoid probable tire blowouts.
Overinflation
If you overinflate your tires, they will wear faster and unevenly compared to those inflated correctly.
This wear often leads to a tire blowout.
Underinflation
On the other hand, underinflation makes your tires overheat, often leading to their blowout.
Whereas you may have a tire pressure monitoring system to comply with the 2007 law dictating the need for one in every pick-up, SUV and car, it is often insufficient.
After all, these systems only alert you during extreme underinflation and notify you when it is too late.
So, avoid over-reliance on your TPMS, or a tire blowout will catch you off-guard.
Under Maintenance
Rotate your car often for them to wear evenly.
You should also ensure their treads’ thickness is optimum and replace tires whenever needed.
Failure to maintain the tires adequately can lead to blowouts.
What Should You Do If Your Trailer Has a Blown Tire?
The following tips should help you survive a tire blowout;
- Ensure that the grip on the car wheel is firm
- Avoid braking since it leads to skidding and losing control of your car
- As you try to regain control over your vehicle, maintaining its speed is crucial
- Steer right or left so as not to leave your lane
- Your foot shouldn’t be on the accelerator anymore to help you slow the vehicle down slowly.
- Pull over to the roadside and remember to put your indicator on while at it, especially when moving across traffic.
- Only tap its brakes if the speed is less than 20 miles per hour since that’s when it is ideal to make it stop.
- Apply the parking brake once the car stops.
- Remember to turn its emergency lights on to help other motorists slow down and move around your car to avoid collision.
- If you have a spare tire and can change it, go ahead.
- On the other hand, drivers without a spare tire or the skills to change a tire can seek professional assistance.
How Can You Prevent a Tire Blowout?
Since prevention is better than cure, observe these tips to avoid a tire blowout;
- Check the tire pressure often to confirm its levels are correct
- The tires should be properly inflated
- The brakes should also be working efficiently
- Drive safely and observe the recommended speed limits
If you observe the above, there are high chances you won’t experience a tire blowout;
References
https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/tires/how-to-survive-a-tire-blowout/
https://www.quora.com/Can-you-drive-a-trailer-with-a-blown-tire