Step-by-Step: What to Do When You Get a Flat Tyre
Getting a flat tyre is stressful, especially if it happens at speed on a motorway or in an unfamiliar location. Staying calm and following the right steps will keep you safe and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Step 1: Do Not Panic — Control the Car
If a tyre deflates suddenly at speed, you will feel the car pulling strongly to one side and the steering will feel heavy and unresponsive. Grip the wheel firmly with both hands, ease off the accelerator gradually — do not brake sharply — and signal to move to the left lane. Allow the car to slow naturally using the engine, then steer carefully to the hard shoulder, a layby or a side road.
Step 2: Make Yourself Safe
Once stopped, switch on your hazard lights immediately. If on a motorway hard shoulder, get all occupants out of the car via the left-side doors and stand behind the barrier well away from the traffic. Do not attempt to change the tyre on a motorway hard shoulder — call for emergency assistance instead.
Step 3: Assess Your Options
If you are in a safe location away from fast-moving traffic, assess whether you have a spare wheel and the tools to change it, or whether you have a puncture repair kit. Many modern cars no longer carry a spare — they may have a tyre inflation/sealant kit, or nothing at all if fitted with run-flat tyres.
Step 4: Call Saltire Mobile Tyres
For drivers across Yorkshire and Scotland, calling Saltire Mobile Tyres is often the fastest and safest option. We operate 24/7 and can reach most locations across Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Dundee and Aberdeen within an hour. We will come to you, fit a replacement tyre on the spot and get you moving again.