CAR TROUBLES
Flat tire, now what?
A sagging corner in the driveway — or a sudden pull and shaky steering on the road. Get safely to the side, make yourself visible, then choose tow or DIY.
Safety when broken down
Wear a safety vest when you are out of the car. Place reflectors, flares, flashing lights, or orange cones so traffic moves over. Grandpa TJ: in daylight, orange soccer-style cones are often noticed faster than other signals — drivers already associate cones with “move over.”
What are your choices?
After you are out of traffic and visible to other drivers, here are some choices.
Get a tow truck
Pros: Easy — most tow companies offer roadside tire changing.
Cons: Can take a long time (especially nights); expensive without roadside coverage; no spare still means a tow. Hard on a tight budget.
Change your tire
Pros: You don’t wait for someone with the right tools.
Cons: Dirty hands (and maybe clothes), moderate physical work, and the right tools.
Need help with your situation?
Email Grandpa TJ for free unbiased advice, or join the Inner Circle when you need a real conversation with a real person.
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