The Most Common Accidents Caused by Flat Tires

Flat tires are one of the most frequent issues drivers face, and while they may seem like just an inconvenience, they can actually lead to dangerous accidents if not handled properly. A sudden tire blowout or driving with a severely underinflated tire can compromise your vehicle’s control, putting you and others at risk on the road.


Loss of control and rollover accidents

One of the most dangerous accidents caused by flat tires is losing control of the vehicle. When a tire suddenly loses air, the driver may struggle to steer properly, especially at high speeds. This can cause the car to swerve, veer into another lane, or even roll over if the driver overcorrects. SUVs and trucks, which have a higher center of gravity, are especially vulnerable to rollovers when a flat tire occurs.


Rear-end collisions

Flat tires don’t always burst immediately; sometimes they deflate gradually. If a tire suddenly goes flat while driving in traffic, the vehicle might slow down without warning. The driver behind may not have enough time to react, leading to a rear-end collision. This type of accident is common on highways, where cars are traveling at high speeds and close distances.


Side-impact accidents

When a flat tire pulls the car to one side, it can cause the vehicle to drift out of its lane. If this happens near other cars, especially on multi-lane roads, it can lead to a side-impact or “T-bone” accident. These types of crashes are often severe, as they hit the side of a vehicle where there is less protection compared to the front or rear.


Highway pile-ups

A flat tire at high speeds can result in multi-car accidents. If a driver loses control, other vehicles behind may not have time to stop, especially in heavy traffic. This chain reaction can cause pile-ups, which are not only dangerous but also costly and time-consuming to resolve.


Pedestrian or cyclist accidents

In some cases, a car with a flat tire can jump the curb or drift onto the shoulder of the road. If pedestrians or cyclists are nearby, this can lead to tragic accidents. Even at low speeds, a driver struggling to control their vehicle poses a risk to those outside the car.


Accidents during emergency stops

If a flat tire forces you to stop suddenly, especially on a busy road or highway, your vehicle could become a hazard. Other drivers may not expect you to slow down or pull over, increasing the chances of an accident. Parking on the shoulder with a flat tire can also be dangerous if you are not clearly visible to oncoming traffic.


Why do flat tire accidents happen?

Flat tire accidents are usually caused by:

  • High speeds – blowouts are more dangerous when driving fast.
  • Underinflated tires – they wear unevenly and are more likely to fail.
  • Overloaded vehicles – carrying too much weight puts extra pressure on tires.
  • Old or damaged tires – weak spots can give out unexpectedly.
  • Road hazards – nails, glass, or potholes can cause sudden flats.


How to prevent flat tire accidents

The good news is that many flat tire accidents are preventable. Here are some tips:

  • Check your tire pressure regularly.
  • Inspect your tires for cracks, bulges, or worn treads.
  • Rotate your tires as recommended.
  • Avoid overloading your vehicle.
  • Replace old tires before they become unsafe.
  • Always carry a spare tire or repair kit.