Flat Tire on the Road? Here Is What to Do

A flat tire is one of the most common roadside problems — and one of the most misjudged. Plenty of people are hurt every year trying to change a tire in a spot that was never safe. Here is how to handle a flat the right way.

First, slow down and pull over safely

When you feel a flat — a thumping, a pull to one side, or a sudden loss of pressure — do not slam on the brakes. Ease off the accelerator, grip the wheel firmly, and let the vehicle slow gradually. Then look for the safest place to stop:

• A flat, straight, wide stretch away from traffic
• A parking lot or side street if one is close
• Never on a curve, a bridge, or a narrow shoulder if you can avoid it

Driving a short distance on a flat to reach a safe spot is better than stopping somewhere dangerous. A ruined tire is cheaper than a collision.

Turn on your hazards and assess

Once stopped, put on your hazard lights. Take a moment to look at where you are. Ask yourself honestly:

• Is there enough room to work on the side of the vehicle away from traffic?
• Is the ground level and firm enough to use a jack safely?
• Do you have a good spare, the tools, and confidence to do it?

If the answer to any of those is no, that is your cue to call for help rather than push ahead.

When to change it yourself

If you are in a genuinely safe location, you have a properly inflated spare, and you know the steps, changing it yourself can get you moving quickly. Loosen the lug nuts before you jack up the vehicle, keep your body out of the traffic side, and check that your spare is inflated before you rely on it. Remember most compact spares are temporary and speed-limited — plan to get a proper tire soon.

When to call instead

Call 303-841-9161 for a roadside tire change if:

• You are on a busy road or a narrow shoulder where working beside the car is risky
• Your spare is missing, flat, or damaged
• The weather, lighting, or ground make it unsafe
• You are simply not comfortable doing it

We will come to you and swap on your good spare so you can get going. If you do not have a usable spare, we can tow your vehicle to a tire shop from the same call.

There is no prize for changing a tire in a dangerous spot. When in doubt, stay safe and let us handle it.