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Home > What to do in an emergency > In case of an emergency while driving > If you have a flat tire while driving

If you have a flat tire while driving

1
Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and let the vehicle slow down while driving straight ahead.

Do not apply the brakes immediately or attempt to pull off the road as this may cause a loss of control.

2
When the vehicle has slowed to such a speed that it is safe to do so, brake carefully and pull off the road.
3
Drive off the road as far as possible and park on firm level ground.

If you are on a divided highway, do not park in the median area between the two traffic lanes.

4
When the vehicle is stopped, turn on your emergency hazard flashers, set the parking brake and put the transmission in P.
5
Have all passengers get out of the vehicle. Be sure they all get out on the side of the vehicle that is away from traffic.
6
When changing a flat tire, follow the instruction provided later in this section.