How to Stay Safe When You Get a Flat Tire on the Highway

by Caleb Fleschner

Last Updated July 16, 2026 In Newsletter

A Flat Tire Can Become a Dangerous Situation

A flat tire or sudden tire blowout can happen to any driver. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, pulling onto the side of a busy highway can put you at serious risk of being struck by another vehicle.

Many drivers instinctively get out of their vehicle and begin changing the tire themselves. However, before grabbing the jack and spare tire, it is important to consider whether stopping alongside the roadway is actually safe.

“Many people underestimate how dangerous it can be to stand near traffic after a breakdown,” said Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin attorney Caleb Fleschner. “A flat tire may seem like a problem you can quickly fix, but your safety should always come first. If you are stopped near moving vehicles, it is often better to wait for professional assistance rather than risk putting yourself in harm’s way.”

Move Over laws exist in all 50 states to help protect people who are stopped on the side of the road, including stranded motorists, emergency responders, and roadside workers. However, even with these laws in place, roadside crashes continue to occur.

What to Do If You Have a Flat Tire on the Highway

If you experience a flat tire or blowout, follow these steps to reduce your risk of injury:

Safely Move Your Vehicle Off the Road

Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, take your foot off the accelerator, and allow your vehicle to slow down gradually. Avoid sudden braking, swerving, or sharp movements, which can make the vehicle harder to control.

If possible:

• Move to the shoulder of the highway or interstate.
• Pull into a parking lot, driveway, or other safe location in an urban area.
• Move as far away from traffic as possible in a rural area.

Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Once you are safely stopped, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle is disabled. This can help increase visibility, especially at night or during poor weather conditions.

Emergency responders, law enforcement officers, tow truck operators, and other drivers may be able to see your vehicle more easily and provide assistance.

Evaluate Your Surroundings Before Changing the Tire

Before getting out of your vehicle, consider your location.

If you are stopped on:

• A busy highway or interstate with vehicles traveling at high speeds, do not attempt to change the tire yourself. Call for roadside assistance instead.
• A quieter road or a safe location away from traffic, you may be able to change the tire if you feel comfortable doing so.

Your ability to change a tire is not the only factor to consider—the biggest concern is whether you can do so safely.

If You Change the Tire Yourself, Use Caution

If you determine it is safe to replace the tire:

• Park on a flat, stable surface.
• Set the parking brake.
• Follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual instructions.
• Use the jack only at the recommended lifting point.
• Tighten the lug nuts securely after replacing the tire.

Never place yourself in a position where you could be struck by passing vehicles.

Replace Your Spare Tire as Soon as Possible

Spare tires are designed for temporary use and are not intended to replace a permanent tire for an extended period of time.

After installing a spare:

• Drive cautiously.
• Follow the speed recommendations for the spare tire.
• Replace the damaged tire as soon as possible.
• Check the spare tire’s air pressure if you need to travel a significant distance.

What If You Are Injured After a Roadside Accident?

A flat tire or vehicle breakdown can increase the risk of a crash, but many roadside accidents happen because another driver fails to pay attention, follow traffic laws, or operate their vehicle safely.

At Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin, we understand how devastating a serious auto accident can be. If you or someone you love was injured because of another driver’s negligence, our Indiana and Illinois auto accident attorneys are here to help.

Contact Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin today for a free consultation.