Guide2026-10-13·Amarillo, TX
At the moment of the blowout
- Grip the wheel firmly with both hands and hold your line. A steer-tire blowout may jerk the wheel.
- Do not slam the brakes and do not make a sudden steering correction.
- Ease off the accelerator and let the truck slow on its own, then brake gently once it is stable.
- Keep the truck straight and avoid lane changes until you have control.
Getting stopped
- Turn on your hazard lights early and look for a wide shoulder, ramp or lot.
- Check mirrors and signal if you need to move over, and slow enough that other drivers can react.
- Stop as far from the travel lanes as you safely can, and set the brakes.
After you stop
- Warning devices: federal rules require commercial drivers to put out warning triangles within ten minutes of stopping on the shoulder. They are typically placed about 10 feet, 100 feet and 200 feet behind the vehicle on a divided highway. Place them only where you can do so safely.
- Look at the whole axle and the tire beside it. A blowout can also damage the fender, air lines, wiring and the neighboring dual.
- Tell dispatch your unit number, location, direction and what failed.
- Get a pro for the tire. Do not try to mount or inflate heavy-truck tires on the shoulder; see Commercial & Semi Truck Tire Service.
Debris in the road
Pieces of a failed tire are a hazard to other drivers. If it is safe, report debris on the roadway with your location, and do not walk into a lane to retrieve it.
Reducing the chances
- Check pressure when tires are cold, not after a run.
- Walk around the truck and inspect all tires, including the inside duals.
- Replace tires that show cuts, bulges or exposed cord.
Where this applies near Amarillo
Whether you are on I-40 or I-27, read Flat Tire on I-40 near Amarillo and Roadside Help on I-27 for what to say. For a trailer, see Trailer Tire Service.