Cars Like Us, We Like Cars

2 More Car Emergencies: Averting A Catastrophe

Recently, we talked about a couple of driving situations that could potentially lead to an accident. I explained what you should do (and avoid doing) in the event of a tire blowout. I also described how to handle your car when you’re forced to stop suddenly without the use of anti-lock brakes. Today, we’ll explore 2 more circumstances that can happen anytime, endangering you, your passengers, and other drivers. I’ll describe what you should do in each case to ensure your safety.

#1 – Separating Tire Treads

This doesn’t happen often (thank goodness). But, when it does, it can be dangerous. The treads on your tires come apart and separate themselves from the steel belt underneath. When that happens, the steel belt can spin ferociously, ripping through the brake line, rear seats, and even the windows. I don’t need to describe what it can do to a person. Initially, you’ll hear a rhythmic thump, then a slap, and finally a metal-rending noise.

If you’re lucky, the treads can take days to go through this process, giving you enough time to put a spare on and have the tires replaced. But, it’s possible for the treads to separate within minutes. Quick decision-making is critical.

First, when you hear the rhythmic thump, pull over to the side of the road so you can inspect your tires for damage. If you see any (it’s easy to identify), replace the damaged tire with a spare and take the vehicle to a mechanic.

If your treads start coming apart while you’re driving (again, it can happen quickly), press the gas pedal down gently for an instant before removing your foot. Keep your car pointed straight; don’t try to pull over to the side. Let your car drift while it slows. When you reach 30 mph, turn on your turn indicator light and slowly maneuver your car toward the side of the damaged treads.

#2 – Sliding Front Wheels

There are times during which your car’s front tires lose traction. When that happens, it can seem as if you’ve lost the ability to maneuver. The fact is, automakers design their vehicles so that the rear wheels maintain their traction, even in the event that the front wheels lose traction.

Here’s what you should do: don’t press either the gas or brake pedal. And don’t try to steer – if you do, you’ll likely make the situation worse. Instead, simply keep your hands in their same positions and wait for the front wheels to regain their grip on the road. In effect, there’s not much you can do, but trying to regain control before traction returns can easily exacerbate the problem.

In the next segment on driving emergencies, we’ll take a closer look at 2 more potentially dangerous circumstances and how you should deal with them. Stay tuned.

Cars Like Us

Subscribe to our Feed

Be Sociable, Share!

•