Tyre blowout on a motorway with a heavy load
You are driving a loaded rigid lorry at 90 km/h in the left lane of a three-lane motorway. Without warning you hear a bang and feel the vehicle pull sharply to the left; the steering feels heavy and the vehicle begins to veer toward the hard shoulder. You are carrying a full load and the vehicle has a high centre of gravity. There is a car about 40 m behind you and a lorry overtaking in the middle lane. The hard shoulder is 3 m wide.
1. What has happened and what are your first actions?
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What happened: A likely front tyre blowout/failure - the bang, sharp pull and heavy steering are classic signs. A deflating tyre on one side creates a strong steering pull toward that side.
First actions:
- Grip the wheel firmly with both hands and hold the vehicle straight. Do not fight the pull with sudden jerks.
- Ease off the accelerator smoothly - do not brake hard, which can cause a swerve or loss of control, especially with a high centre of gravity.
- Keep steering straight and let speed reduce; use gentle steering corrections only.
- Signal left and move progressively to the hard shoulder when it is safe, checking mirrors and the car behind.
- Once stopped, switch on hazards, and get yourself and any passengers to a safe place behind the barrier if possible.
Do not stop in a live lane if you can avoid it; the hard shoulder is the target.
2. How do you stop and make the situation safe, and what would you check before moving again?
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Stopping:
- Reduce speed gently, keep the vehicle straight, and steer onto the hard shoulder as smoothly as possible.
- Stop as far left as you can, wheels straight, and apply the parking brake.
- Switch on hazard lights; if it is dark or visibility is poor, use side lights.
Make safe:
- Put on a high-visibility vest, place a warning triangle if safe and legal, and keep clear of the traffic side.
- Call for assistance; do not attempt a roadside wheel change on the traffic side of a motorway unless it is safe and you are trained and equipped.
Before moving again, check:
- The failed tyre and wheel, and inspect the other tyres for damage or heat.
- Wheel nuts and studs, and whether the wheel/rim is damaged.
- Load security - a blowout and swerve can shift a high load; check straps and the load.
- Steering and brakes for damage.
Only continue when it is safe and legal to do so; otherwise arrange recovery.