What is what to do when you get a flat tire on the highway?

Okay, here's information about what to do when you get a flat tire on the highway, in Markdown format with the requested links:

Dealing with a Flat Tire on the Highway

Getting a flat tire on the highway can be a stressful and dangerous situation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you handle it safely:

  1. Stay Calm: The most important thing is to remain calm. Panic can lead to poor decisions.

  2. Assess the Situation: Immediately check your surroundings. Note the traffic conditions and the availability of a safe place to pull over.

  3. Signal Your Intentions: Turn on your hazard%20lights immediately to alert other drivers.

  4. Safely Pull Over: Gradually steer towards the shoulder of the road. Avoid sudden braking or jerky movements. If possible, try to reach a safe%20location like an exit ramp, rest area, or wide shoulder. The further away from traffic you can get, the better.

  5. Position Your Vehicle: Park as far off the road as possible, ideally on a level surface. Engage your parking%20brake to prevent the car from rolling.

  6. Ensure Your Safety: Before exiting the vehicle, check for oncoming traffic. Wear a high-visibility%20vest if you have one. Instruct all passengers to exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic and stand a safe distance from the road.

  7. Call for Assistance: If you're uncomfortable changing the tire yourself or if the situation is too dangerous, call for roadside%20assistance or emergency services (like 911). Provide them with your exact location.

  8. Change the Tire (If Possible & Safe): If you are going to change the tire, follow these steps:

    • Locate your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench.
    • Consult your owner's manual for the correct jacking points on your vehicle.
    • Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire before jacking up the car.
    • Place the jack in the correct position and raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.
    • Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire.
    • Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs.
    • Tighten the lug nuts by hand in a star pattern.
    • Lower the vehicle and remove the jack.
    • Fully tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
    • Check the pressure of your spare tire.
  9. After Changing the Tire:

    • Store the flat tire and tools securely in your vehicle.
    • Drive cautiously to the nearest service station to have the flat tire repaired or replaced. Remember that spare tires are often temporary and have speed restrictions.
    • Get your lug nuts re-torqued by a professional as soon as possible.

Important Considerations:

  • Never attempt to change a tire on a busy highway with heavy traffic. Your safety is paramount.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • If you are unsure about any step of the tire-changing process, call for assistance.