10 Things to Do When a Truck Tyre Burst Strikes on Australian Roads
When you’re driving a truck on Australian highways, nothing feels more alarming than a sudden tyre burst. These heavy vehicles carry enormous weight, and even a single tyre failure can create life-threatening risks for the driver and others on the road. Unfortunately, tyre blowouts happen more often than many people think, usually due to overloading, under-inflation, or unnoticed wear and tear.
Knowing how to react when a tyre bursts can make the difference between a controlled stop and a catastrophic accident. In this blog, Amigo Tyres- truck tyre in Rocklea- has listed ten essential things truck drivers should do when faced with this situation.
1. Stay Calm and Hold the Steering Wheel Firmly
The first rule is to keep calm. A tyre blowout creates a loud bang followed by strong vibrations, which can easily cause panic. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and maintain a firm grip. Avoid jerking the wheel—this only increases the risk of losing control.
2. Don’t Slam the Brakes
Many drivers instinctively hit the brakes hard when a tyre bursts. That’s a dangerous mistake. Sudden braking shifts the vehicle’s weight and can cause the truck to skid or roll over. Instead, allow the vehicle to slow down gradually while controlling its direction.
3. Ease Off the Accelerator
The safest way to manage a tyre burst is to gently release the accelerator. This lowers the truck’s speed without sudden movements, giving you better control. Once the vehicle stabilises, look for a safe spot to pull over.
4. Activate Hazard Lights Immediately
Turn on your hazard lights as soon as the blowout occurs. This alerts other road users to maintain distance. Australian highways are often busy with cars, buses, and heavy freight vehicles—hazard lights help prevent secondary accidents.
5. Steer the Truck Towards Safety
After a tyre burst, your priority is to get the truck away from the active lane. Slowly guide the truck towards the shoulder or the emergency bay. Do not make sudden, sharp turns, and just let the truck gently drift to a safe stopping point.
6. Keep a Safe Distance from Traffic
After the truck has been stopped, don’t step out immediately on the road-facing side. Move cautiously, if possible, exit from the opposite side, and set up warning triangles behind the truck. This step becomes more important on highways, where vehicles zoom at high speeds.
7. Inspect the Damage Carefully
Once safety has been ensured, inspect the blown-out tyre. Sometimes, what looks like a tyre burst may actually be a severe puncture. Check if other tyres are being affected, especially in cases where truck is carrying heavy loads. This quick check may help you decide whether to call for emergency roadside assistance or get on with a simple tyre replacement.
8. Call for Professional Roadside Assistance
Never try to fix a blown truck tyre on a busy highway by yourself. Contact a professional roadside assistance service. In Australia, several towing and tyre services are available 24/7. They can help with tyre replacement, towing, or mechanical checks to ensure the truck is safe to continue.
9. Inform Your Fleet Manager or Employer
For truck drivers working with logistics companies, it’s important to report the tyre burst incident immediately. This allows your fleet manager to coordinate assistance, reschedule deliveries, and ensure compliance with road safety regulations.
10. Learn from the Incident
Every tyre failure is a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance. After handling a blowout, schedule a full tyre inspection. Regularly checking air pressure, tread depth, and alignment can greatly reduce the risk of another tyre burst. Preventive care saves money, reduces downtime, and—most importantly—keeps you safe on Australian roads.
Get Truck Tyre Repair From Amigo Tyres
A tyre burst on the road can be stressful, but knowing how to react makes all the difference. From staying calm and steering safely to inspecting the damage and seeking professional help, every step ensures your safety and minimizes downtime.
So, the next time a tyre burst strikes, don’t panic—follow the right steps and get back on the road with confidence.
Still worried about handling unexpected tyre troubles? Contact our experts today for reliable roadside assistance and professional truck tyre services across Australia.