## Vehicle breakdowns 

An unexpected vehicle breakdown can create a dangerous situation for you and your passengers. The best prevention is having a well‑maintained vehicle and doing regular periodic and pre‑trip checks. 

## Tire blowout 

## You in the driver’s seat 

You are driving along a highway when your front tire suddenly blows out. 

What should you do? 

When a front tire blows out, your vehicle can be pulled in the direction of the deflated tire, especially at high speeds. A rear blowout can cause the vehicle to start skidding. 

To help stay safe when a tire blows out: 

• Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. 

• Don’t brake suddenly and risk loss of steering control. Ease off the accelerator and decelerate slowly. You can start to brake gently once the car has slowed down. 

• Steer in the direction you want to go. (See Skid control earlier in this chapter.) 

• Signal or put on the hazard lights and pull off the road as soon as it’s safe. 

## Brake failure 

Total brake failure is rare. However, if your brake system fails, you will need to use your see-think-do  skills to respond quickly and safely. 

## Strategies: handling a tire blowout 

