Chapter 9: Emergencies & Legal Responsibilities

Knowing how to react calmly and correctly during a vehicle emergency can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious collision. Similarly, understanding your legal duties after a crash or during a traffic stop is essential for navigating stressful situations without making them worse. This knowledge protects you legally and physically, and is a critical component of being a responsible driver.

Vehicle Malfunctions

Even a well-maintained vehicle can experience a sudden failure. Knowing the correct response can help you maintain control and bring your vehicle to a safe stop.

Tire Blowout

A sudden loss of tire pressure will cause the vehicle to pull sharply in the direction of the failed tire.

1. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands to keep the vehicle straight.
2. Do not slam on the brakes. This can cause a loss of control.
3. Ease your foot off the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow down gradually.
4. Once you have slowed to a safe speed, activate your turn signal and pull off the road to a safe location.