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Semi Truck Tire Blowout on the Highway: What Should a Truck Driver Do?

September 19, 2026·7 min read·By Tire Dose

Last updated September 19, 2026

Safety comes before the service call

A blowout can affect steering, stability, and debris around the combination. Follow your training and emergency procedures; do not put yourself in live traffic to inspect a tire.

1

Keep the truck controlled

Hold the steering wheel firmly, avoid a sharp correction, and reduce speed gradually as the vehicle remains controllable. Follow your training and operating procedures.

2

Move to a safer stopping position

Signal and move away from live lanes when it is safe to do so. If the vehicle cannot be moved safely, stay belted and call emergency services as appropriate.

3

Activate warning equipment

Use hazard lights and place required warning devices only when it is safe and consistent with applicable commercial-vehicle procedures.

4

Stay visible without standing in traffic

Keep clear of moving vehicles and the truck’s traffic side. A guardrail or other protected area may be safer when available.

5

Call for commercial tire service

Give the dispatcher the highway, direction, nearest exit or mile marker, truck and trailer details, and the failed tire position.

When you call from NJ or New York highways

Tell dispatch whether the failure is on the tractor or trailer, which side and axle are affected, and whether the combination is fully beyond the travel lane. That is more useful than simply saying “I have a flat,” especially on the Turnpike, I-95, I-287, or a bridge approach.

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