Most drivers agree that if a car has a flat tire, it should not be driven further because continuing to drive on a flat tire can damage the wheel.
Not only can a flat tire damage the tire itself, but driving a vehicle with a flat tire over a long distance can also cause wear on the rims, overheat the vehicle’s engine, and increase the risk of traffic accidents on bumpy roads, leading to loss of control when the road surface is uneven.
However, today’s tires are designed to allow for gentle, slow movement even when flat. Therefore, if it is absolutely necessary to drive on a flat tire, drivers should pay attention to the following points.
If the car has a flat tire, do not drive too far to avoid further damaging the tire under pressure. It is best to find a safe place to stop and address the flat tire as soon as possible.
Do not attempt to drive more than a few hundred kilometers on a flat tire, even if it is not fully deflated. (Illustrative image).
Drive slowly: Avoid driving faster than 24-32 km/h (15-20 mph) when the tire is flat. Driving quickly can cause permanent damage to the wheel and may lead to loss of steering control. Gently press the accelerator and drive slowly until you find a suitable place to change the tire.
Driving at high speeds will only damage the wheel faster, as higher speeds can expose the wheel to greater forces without the tire protecting it from rough patches or debris on the road.
Drive on flat surfaces: Poor road conditions can damage the wheel rims, specifically bending and misaligning them. Be cautious of wet or sandy terrains that may cause the vehicle to skid, sink, or get stuck. Asphalt roads, parking lots, or highways are the best surfaces for vehicles with flat tires.
Stay on the main road: Avoid winding or curvy roads when looking for a place to change the tire. Instead, drive slowly, straight, and make gentle turns. Look for the straightest path to take. Keeping the wheels rolling smoothly can help counteract the traction pull, while sharp turns can put pressure on the wheel rims.
Pull over to a safe location: When possible, move off the main road and head towards areas with less traffic. Ensure that the vehicle comes to a complete stop, engage the handbrake, and turn on the hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing an issue. Park in a flat area in case you need to use a jack. Do not exit the vehicle until you are sure of the traffic conditions on the road.
Do not drive too far on a flat tire: Never attempt to drive more than a few hundred kilometers on a flat tire, even if it is not fully deflated.
