How To Get A Car To Garage With Flat Tire: Essential Options And Roadside Assistance [Update On 2025]

To get a car with a flat tire to a garage, first pull over to a safe area. Turn on your hazard lights. If you can, use a spare tire or fix-a-flat and drive slowly to a mechanic. If not, call a tow service. Make sure your vehicle is in park and secured with wheel wedges and the parking brake.

Consider using a spare tire if available. A spare tire can be installed quickly if you have the necessary tools and knowledge. If changing the tire is not feasible, contacting roadside assistance is a reliable option. Many insurance policies and automobile clubs offer this service. They can send a professional to change the tire or tow your car to a garage.

Alternatively, if you lack a spare or roadside assistance, using a portable air compressor can temporarily inflate the tire for a short drive to a repair shop. These methods ensure your car reaches the garage while maintaining safety.

In the next section, we will explore how to choose the right roadside assistance service and the benefits of having a reliable plan in place.

Table of Contents

What Should You Do Immediately After Discovering a Flat Tire?

Immediately after discovering a flat tire, you should take steps to ensure your safety and address the issue.

Assess the Situation
Ensure Your Safety
Inspect the Tire
Change the Tire or Call for Assistance
Secure the Flat Tire for Repair or Replacement

Transitioning from these initial steps, it is vital to understand the details of each action for effective handling of the situation.

Assess the Situation: Assessing the situation involves determining if it is safe to exit your vehicle and inspect the tire. Look for any immediate danger from traffic or weather conditions. This step is crucial for your safety and can prevent accidents.
Ensure Your Safety: Ensuring your safety means moving your vehicle to a safe location, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares if you have them. Safety is paramount in preventing further incidents.
Inspect the Tire: Inspecting the tire involves checking for visible damage, such as punctures, bulges, or foreign objects lodged in the tire. This inspection can help you understand whether the tire is repairable or if it needs replacement.
Change the Tire or Call for Assistance: Changing the tire can be done if you have the necessary tools and knowledge. If not, or if you feel unsafe, calling for roadside assistance is a viable option. Many insurance policies offer this service, which can greatly ease your burden.
Secure the Flat Tire for Repair or Replacement: Securing the flat tire includes placing it in your vehicle and taking it to a tire repair shop or an auto service center. Timely action is essential to avoid roadside hazards and ensure vehicle readiness.

How Can You Safely Assess the Situation?

To safely assess a situation, it is crucial to observe carefully, gather relevant information, evaluate potential risks, and make informed decisions accordingly. Each of these strategies plays a vital role in ensuring a thorough assessment.

Observe carefully: Take time to examine the environment. Note any unusual behaviors, sounds, or changes. Research indicates that careful observation can increase situational awareness by up to 80% (Smith, 2021). This helps identify potential hazards or critical elements that may require attention.
Gather relevant information: Collect data from multiple sources. This can include talking to witnesses, reviewing reports, or using technology like cameras. The National Safety Council suggests that gathering comprehensive information reduces the chances of overlooking essential details, thus improving decision-making effectiveness.
Evaluate potential risks: Analyze the gathered information to identify hazards. Assess the likelihood and severity of these risks. According to a study published in Risk Analysis, risk evaluation can lead to a 50% reduction in adverse outcomes (Jones & Taylor, 2020). This step is crucial in determining the best course of action.
Make informed decisions: Based on your observations and risk assessment, decide the appropriate actions to take. Use a hierarchy of controls to prioritize actions, starting with elimination of the hazard when possible, followed by substitution, engineering controls, administrative actions, and personal protective equipment. This structured approach enhances safety and effectiveness.

By following these steps, individuals can conduct a thorough and safe assessment of any situation.

What Emergency Signals Should You Use?

The emergency signals you should use depend on the situation you are in. They can include visual signals, auditory signals, or specific emergency response actions.

Visual Signals:
– Flares
– Reflective triangles
– Hazard lights
Auditory Signals:
– Horns
– Whistles
– Sirens
Specific Emergency Response Actions:
– Calling emergency services
– Using personal alarms
– Sending distress signals via radio

Understanding the available emergency signals is vital for safety and effective communication.

Visual Signals:
Visual signals serve as indicators to alert others about an emergency. Flares are bright, colorful signals that can be seen from a distance; they are commonly used by motorists to signal distress on the road. Reflective triangles are another effective visual alert, often set up by stranded vehicles to warn approaching traffic. Hazard lights, when activated, signal caution to nearby drivers, indicating that the vehicle is stationary due to an emergency.
Auditory Signals:
Auditory signals are designed to capture attention through sound. Horns are commonly used in vehicles to alert others of potential dangers. They can be particularly effective in traffic situations. Whistles can be used in outdoor emergencies to draw attention when shouting is not effective. Sirens are another important auditory signal, often associated with emergency vehicles, signaling urgency and the need for immediate action.
Specific Emergency Response Actions:
Specific emergency actions are crucial in urgent situations. Calling emergency services is often the first step when immediate help is needed. Personal alarms can be very effective in situations where you feel threatened; these devices emit loud sounds to draw attention. Sending distress signals via radio or mobile can contact help, especially in remote areas. These signals are essential for communication during emergencies, ensuring that help can be reached as quickly as possible.

What Tools and Equipment Are Essential for Moving a Car with a Flat Tire?

To move a car with a flat tire, essential tools and equipment include the following.

Spare tire
Jack
Lug wrench
Tire inflator or air compressor
Wheel chocks
Safety gloves
Reflective triangles or cones

Moving a car with a flat tire involves a combination of tools and equipment that ensure safety and efficiency. Each tool plays a critical role in addressing the issue of a flat tire.

Spare Tire: A spare tire is a crucial replacement for a flat tire. Spare tires may be full-sized or temporary, known as “donuts.” Full-sized spares offer a similar experience to regular tires. Temporary ones are lighter but not suitable for long distances.
Jack: A jack lifts the vehicle off the ground, providing access to the flat tire. Different types include scissor jacks, hydraulic jacks, and floor jacks. Hydraulic jacks are popular for their ease of use and lifting capacity, while scissor jacks are lighter and more compact. Their effectiveness varies based on the vehicle’s size and weight.
Lug Wrench: A lug wrench is used to remove and tighten the lug nuts that secure the tire. They come in various designs, including cross-shaped and T-handle models. A quality lug wrench provides better torque, which is essential for safely securing the spare tire.
Tire Inflator or Air Compressor: A tire inflator can be handy if the flat tire can be temporarily inflated. Portable tire inflators often plug into the car’s power outlet. They are useful in emergencies and can prevent immediate towing.
Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks stabilize the vehicle and prevent it from rolling while it is lifted. Positioning them on the wheels opposite the flat tire increases safety.
Safety Gloves: Wearing safety gloves protects hands while working with potentially sharp edges on tires or tools. They ensure a secure grip and minimize injuries.
Reflective Triangles or Cones: Reflective warning devices alert other drivers of a vehicle in distress. These are essential for safety on busy roads or highways.

Using the right combination of these tools provides an effective solution for addressing flat tires and promoting safety during this task. Understanding how each tool functions can prevent accidents and expedite the tire change process.

What Type of Jack is Most Suitable for Your Car?

The most suitable type of jack for your car is typically a hydraulic or scissor jack, depending on your vehicle’s specifications and your intended use.

Hydraulic Jack
Scissor Jack
Bottle Jack
Floor Jack
Electric Jack

Choosing the right jack can significantly influence your experience during tire changes or repairs. Each jack has distinct advantages and limitations.

Hydraulic Jack:
Hydraulic jacks use a fluid-filled cylinder to lift heavy weights. They offer a high lifting capacity with less effort and require minimal physical strength. For example, a hydraulic floor jack can lift a standard vehicle in seconds, making it popular among mechanics and car enthusiasts. These jacks typically have a lifting range suitable for most vehicles, often up to 3 tons.
Scissor Jack:
Scissor jacks are compact and generally come with the vehicle as standard equipment. They require a manual crank to adjust the height. While they are lightweight and easy to store, they operate slower than hydraulic jacks. They are suitable for emergency situations and basic tire changes, making them a practical choice for everyday drivers.
Bottle Jack:
Bottle jacks resemble a bottle and use hydraulic pressure. They provide significant lifting power and are often more portable than floor jacks. However, they can be less stable during operation and work best on level surfaces. With a lifting range that can exceed 10 tons, they are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles but might not fit under lower sports cars.
Floor Jack:
Floor jacks feature a long handle for pumping and can lift a vehicle from a flat position. They provide excellent stability and can handle significant weights. Many professional garages prefer this type because of its ease of use and speed during tire changes. A floor jack can raise a car quickly and usually has a low profile, allowing it to fit under most vehicles.
Electric Jack:
Electric jacks offer a modern option for ease of use. They often work with your vehicle’s electrical system and can lift a car at the press of a button. While they provide convenience, they may be more expensive and require a reliable power source. Electric jacks are gaining popularity due to their efficiency in emergency situations.

Each jack type has specific strengths and weaknesses suited to various scenarios. Selecting the appropriate model depends on your vehicle type, typical usage, and personal preferences.

How Do Tire Inflators and Other Tire Repair Kits Help?

Tire inflators and tire repair kits assist drivers by providing quick solutions for flat tires, enhancing vehicle safety, and minimizing downtime. These tools are essential in emergencies and contribute to road safety by enabling immediate repairs.

Tire inflators work by using air compressors to fill a tire with air, restoring its proper pressure. This process is crucial because:

Quick inflation: Inflators can rapidly restore tire pressure within minutes, reducing the time a driver spends stranded.
Portability: Many tire inflators are compact and easy to store in vehicles, ensuring drivers can access them anywhere.
Automated functions: Some inflators automatically stop when reaching a set pressure, preventing over-inflation and potential tire damage.

Tire repair kits usually contain sealants, plugs, and tools to fix punctures. They enhance safety by:

Temporary repairs: Sealants fill small punctures to prevent air loss, allowing drivers to reach a service station.
Convenience: Repair kits provide a simple, user-friendly solution for minor tire damage, eliminating the need for roadside assistance.
Cost savings: By using a repair kit, drivers can avoid potentially high costs associated with towing and professional tire repairs.

In an analysis by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, 2021), it was found that nearly 200,000 vehicular accidents each year occur due to tire-related issues. Having an inflator and repair kit can significantly reduce this risk by promoting timely repairs and safe vehicle operation.

Effective usage of these tools contributes to reducing vehicle downtime and ensuring a safer driving experience. Their role in regular vehicle maintenance is also vital, as they encourage proactive measures against tire issues. Thus, these tools serve as essential aids in managing tire emergencies.

What Are the Safest Methods for Moving a Car with a Flat Tire?

The safest methods for moving a car with a flat tire involve using towing services or specialized equipment to prevent further damage.

Towing with a Flatbed Truck
Using a Tow Dolly
Using a Wheel Lift Tow Truck
Roadside Assistance Services
Inflating the Tire Temporarily

To ensure safe transportation, it is crucial to understand the various methods available for moving a car that is not operational due to a flat tire. Each option offers different advantages and disadvantages based on convenience and potential vehicle damage.

Towing with a Flatbed Truck:
Towing with a flatbed truck is the safest method for moving a car with a flat tire. A flatbed truck ensures that all tires, including the flat one, are securely lifted off the ground. This method minimizes the risk of damaging the rim or underlying components. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), using a flatbed reduces the potential for further tire damage significantly compared to other towing techniques. For instance, AAA recommends flatbed towing as the preferred method for any disabled vehicle.
Using a Tow Dolly:
Using a tow dolly is another safe method when the car is front-wheel drive. A tow dolly lifts the front wheels off the ground while allowing the rear wheels to roll freely. However, the rear tires will still experience strain, and it may not be advisable for all vehicle types. This method is highlighted in a 2019 report by Motor Trend as an effective option for moving vehicles without causing extensive damage to flat tires.
Using a Wheel Lift Tow Truck:
Using a wheel lift tow truck can also be efficient. This equipment lifts the front or rear of the car onto a tow truck while leaving the other end on the ground. Although it is suitable for some circumstances, it may pose a risk of damage since the lower tires touch the ground. The Automotive Club defines this method as a practical solution when other options are unavailable, but they also caution against using it frequently for flat tires.
Roadside Assistance Services:
Roadside assistance services provide quick solutions for moving a vehicle with a flat tire. These services often offer towing, tire change, or inflation services. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that approximately 32 million people utilize roadside assistance every year, showcasing its popularity among drivers faced with flat tires. These services usually dispatch professionals equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle such situations.
Inflating the Tire Temporarily:
Inflating the tire temporarily can allow for short-distance travel before more permanent solutions are applied. Using an aerosol tire inflator is a common approach that provides enough pressure to drive a short distance. However, this should only be attempted if the tire is not severely damaged. According to Tire Review, this method is not intended for long-term solutions and emphasizes finding immediate professional help thereafter.

In summary, the safest methods for moving a car with a flat tire include using a flatbed truck, a tow dolly, a wheel lift tow truck, roadside assistance, and temporary inflation. Each method has its unique advantages, with flatbed towing standing out as the most reliable and safe approach.

How Can You Change to a Spare Tire Safely?

To change to a spare tire safely, follow these steps: ensure your vehicle is on stable ground, gather necessary tools, loosen the lug nuts, raise the vehicle, remove the flat tire, install the spare tire, and finally lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.

Ensure vehicle stability: Park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface away from traffic. This prevents rolling and provides a safe workspace. Engage the parking brake to avoid movement.
Gather necessary tools: Collect a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and if possible, a wheel chock. A study by the National Safety Council highlights that having the right tools reduces the risk of accidents during tire changes (NSC, 2020).
Loosen lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise while the tire is still on the ground. This step is essential as it prevents the tire from rotating when you raise the vehicle.
Raise the vehicle: Place the jack under the vehicle’s designated jacking point, following the owner’s manual instructions. Lift the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. Use caution as an unstable jack can lead to accidents.
Remove the flat tire: Completely unscrew the loosened lug nuts and remove them. Take off the flat tire by pulling it straight off the hub. Be careful, as the tire can be heavier than anticipated.
Install the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the hub, then push it onto the hub until it is flush. Thread the lug nuts onto the spare tire by hand to secure it in place.
Lower the vehicle and tighten lug nuts: Slowly lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Once grounded, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, ensuring even pressure on the wheel.
Store tools and flat tire: Place all tools back in your vehicle and store the flat tire in a safe place for later repair or disposal. A study by AAA suggests that proper tire storage is critical for maintaining tire integrity and safety (AAA, 2019).

By following these steps, you can effectively change a flat tire while ensuring your safety and that of others around you.

When Is It Necessary to Call a Tow Truck?

It is necessary to call a tow truck when your vehicle is immobile or unsafe to drive. Common situations requiring a tow truck include a flat tire that cannot be repaired on-site, an engine failure, or an accident that leaves the car damaged. If your vehicle runs out of gas, a tow truck can assist by delivering fuel. If you are locked out of your car and cannot access it, a tow truck may be needed to transport the vehicle to a service location. Additionally, if you experience a mechanical failure far from a repair shop, a tow truck can carry your vehicle for repairs. Each of these situations involves safety concerns or mechanical issues that prevent safe vehicle operation. Calling a tow truck addresses these problems efficiently and ensures that you receive professional assistance.

What If You Are Unable to Move the Car Yourself?

If you are unable to move the car yourself, you have several options available to address the situation safely and effectively.

Call a professional towing service.
Contact a roadside assistance program.
Seek help from a friend or family member.
Use a car repair mobile app for assistance.
Consider contacting your insurance company for help.

When exploring your options, it is essential to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each method.

Call a Professional Towing Service: Calling a professional towing service is a reliable solution. A towing company has the necessary equipment and expertise to move your car safely without causing damage. They can handle various issues, such as flat tires, dead batteries, or mechanical failures. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), professional towing services can be accessed 24/7, providing peace of mind in emergency situations.
Contact a Roadside Assistance Program: Roadside assistance programs offer support for unexpected car troubles. Many car insurance policies include roadside assistance as part of their coverage. This service can provide help with flat tires, battery jumps, and towing to a nearby mechanic. Most programs dispatch help quickly, often within 30 minutes, according to insurance industry reports.
Seek Help from a Friend or Family Member: If you have someone nearby who is knowledgeable about cars, they may help you move your vehicle. For example, they could bring a spare tire or jumper cables. While this option relies on personal relations, it can provide a quick, low-cost solution.
Use a Car Repair Mobile App for Assistance: Car repair mobile apps can connect you with local mechanics who can offer support. Some apps provide the option to request roadside assistance directly through their platform. These services often include tracking the progress of your help on a map.
Consider Contacting Your Insurance Company for Help: If you have vehicle insurance, contacting your provider may be worthwhile. Many insurers offer comprehensive assistance for stranded motorists. They can often dispatch a towing service or roadside assistance quickly. Understanding your coverage can help you resolve such situations efficiently.

Exploring these options will help ensure that you can handle the situation effectively and get your car back on the road.

When Should You Consider Calling Roadside Assistance?

You should consider calling roadside assistance when you encounter a breakdown or emergency situation while driving. This includes scenarios such as a flat tire, where you cannot change it yourself. You should also call if your vehicle runs out of fuel, as walking to a gas station can be unsafe. Additionally, if your car won’t start due to a dead battery or engine failure, roadside assistance can help jump-start or tow your vehicle. In cases of lockouts, when you accidentally left your keys inside the car, roadside assistance can unlock your vehicle. Lastly, if you experience overheating or other mechanical issues that leave you stranded, calling for help can ensure your safety. Each of these situations indicates a need for assistance to resolve the problem efficiently and safely.

What Information Should You Provide to Roadside Assistance?

To receive effective roadside assistance, you should provide essential information to ensure prompt help.

Your exact location.
A description of the vehicle.
The nature of the problem.
Contact details.
Insurance information (if applicable).

Providing this information facilitates a swift response from assistance services.

Your Exact Location: The exact location refers to the precise site where assistance is needed. This might include the street address, nearby landmarks, or GPS coordinates. Providing accurate location details helps responders find you quickly. For instance, noting that you are near a well-known store or intersection can expedite the service.
A Description of the Vehicle: The description of your vehicle includes its make, model, color, and license plate number. This information helps roadside assistance identify your vehicle upon arrival. Accurate specifics also reduce confusion and wait times, especially in busy areas where multiple vehicles may need assistance.
The Nature of the Problem: Specifically stating the problem outlines the type of assistance required. This could involve a flat tire, dead battery, or running out of gas. Clear communication allows the service provider to bring the necessary tools and equipment. For example, if you have a flat tire, mentioning the location of the spare tire could help the technician assist you more efficiently.
Contact Details: Providing current and accurate contact details, such as your phone number, is crucial. This enables service providers to reach you for follow-up questions or status updates. Also, it allows them to notify you upon their arrival.
Insurance Information (if applicable): If your roadside assistance is covered by insurance, providing relevant policy details can streamline the claims process. It ensures that the service rendered will be documented correctly and that payment can be processed efficiently.

Gathering and relaying this information before contacting a roadside assistance service enhances the overall experience and reduces wait times.

What Precautions Should You Take When Handling a Flat Tire?

When handling a flat tire, it is essential to take precautions for your safety and the safety of others. Follow these steps to ensure safe handling.

Ensure your vehicle is in a safe location.
Use hazard lights and warning triangles.
Approach the tire cautiously.
Use the proper tools.
Wear protective gloves.
Check for damages.
Avoid placing limbs under the vehicle.

Taking these precautions helps prevent accidents and injuries.

Now, let’s explore each precaution in detail to understand their importance and implementation.

Ensure Your Vehicle is in a Safe Location: This precaution involves moving your vehicle to a level area away from traffic to avoid accidents. Parking on a firm, stable surface also prevents the vehicle from rolling. Make sure to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Use Hazard Lights and Warning Triangles: Activating hazard lights increases visibility for passing drivers. Placing warning triangles about 30 feet behind your vehicle further alerts motorists of your situation, allowing them to steer clear of you.
Approach the Tire Cautiously: Before you inspect the flat tire, you should check the surrounding area for hazards. Look out for oncoming traffic, and ensure the ground is stable to prevent slipping or falling while handling the tire.
Use the Proper Tools: This includes having a jack, lug wrench, and spare tire. Ensure that these tools are in good condition before you start. Using the right tools protects both you and the vehicle from potential damage during the tire change.
Wear Protective Gloves: Protective gloves serve to keep your hands free from dirt and provide a better grip on tools. They also protect your hands from sharp objects, such as metal shards or glass, that can be present when working near a tire.
Check for Damages: Examine the tire and surrounding area for additional damages, such as to the wheel rim or suspension. This assessment can help determine if the tire can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary.
Avoid Placing Limbs Under the Vehicle: Never put any body parts under the vehicle while it is elevated. This precaution ensures that if the jack fails, you avoid serious injury. Always keep your limbs clear of the vehicle’s path.

By adhering to these precautions, you enhance your safety and ensure a smoother procedure when handling a flat tire.

How Can You Prevent Accidents During the Process?

To prevent accidents during any process, it is crucial to implement safety protocols, provide proper training, and maintain equipment. Each of these key points can significantly enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Implement Safety Protocols: Establishing clear safety guidelines is essential. These protocols should outline steps to take in various scenarios to mitigate risks. Regularly reviewing and updating these protocols ensures they remain relevant and effective.
Provide Proper Training: Training employees on safety measures is vital. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, 2021), effective training can reduce workplace accidents by up to 40%. Training should cover:
– Emergency Procedures: Employees should know how to respond in case of an emergency.
– Equipment Handling: Workers must be proficient in operating machinery safely.
– Hazard Recognition: Training should include identifying and mitigating potential hazards.
Maintain Equipment: Regular maintenance of tools and machinery is essential for preventing accidents. The National Safety Council (NSC, 2020) states that proper maintenance can decrease the likelihood of equipment failure, which is a common cause of accidents. Maintenance activities should include:
– Inspections: Routine checks for wear and tear must be conducted.
– Repairs: Immediate repairs on faulty equipment prevent accidents caused by malfunction.
– Updates: Keeping equipment upgraded and adhering to safety standards further reduces risks.

By focusing on these areas—safety protocols, training, and equipment maintenance—organizations can create a safer working environment and significantly lower the chances of accidents occurring.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid?

To avoid common mistakes while driving, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed. Here are some prevalent errors to consider.

Distracted driving
Speeding
Ignoring traffic signals
Not using turn signals
Driving under the influence
Driving without proper vehicle maintenance
Tailgating
Poor lane changing techniques

Understanding these mistakes helps improve driving habits and ensures road safety.

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving involves engaging in activities that divert attention from operating the vehicle. This can include using a cellphone, eating, or adjusting the radio. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving led to 3,142 fatalities in 2019 alone. To mitigate distractions, drivers should focus solely on the road ahead.
Speeding: Speeding is the act of driving above the speed limit. This behavior increases the likelihood of accidents and reduces a driver’s ability to respond to sudden obstacles. According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), speeding contributes to about 30% of all fatal crashes in the United States. Adhering to speed limits enhances safety for all road users.
Ignoring Traffic Signals: Ignoring signals such as stop signs and traffic lights can lead to severe accidents. These signs are in place to regulate traffic flow and ensure safety at intersections. The IIHS states that running red lights accounted for nearly 1 in 3 crash deaths at intersections in 2018. Following traffic signals is vital for preventing collisions.
Not Using Turn Signals: Failing to use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns can confuse other drivers. Signals communicate a driver’s intentions and help avoid accidents. The NHTSA reveals that an estimated 2 million crashes occur annually due to failing to signal. Always use signals to indicate your next move on the road.
Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction time. The NHTSA reports that in 2019, 10,142 people died in alcohol-related crashes. This staggering statistic emphasizes the importance of designating a sober driver or using ridesharing services to prevent impaired driving.
Driving Without Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures. Regular checks on tires, brakes, and oil can prevent unexpected breakdowns or accidents. The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that poorly maintained vehicles contribute to around 28% of all vehicle accidents. Maintaining your vehicle ensures safety on the road.
Tailgating: Tailgating is the practice of driving too closely to the vehicle in front. This reduces reaction time and increases the risk of rear-end collisions. According to the NHTSA, tailgating accounts for 29% of rear-end accidents. It is important to maintain a safe following distance to allow for unexpected stops.
Poor Lane Changing Techniques: Failing to check mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes can result in collisions. Proper lane changing requires signaling, checking mirrors, and ensuring there is enough space. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety notes that improper lane changes contribute to thousands of accidents each year. Always use caution and signaling when changing lanes to promote safety.

Related Post:

How to Get a Car to Garage with Flat Tire: Essential Options and Roadside Assistance