Chapter 9: Emergencies & Legal Responsibilities

Even the most careful driver can face a sudden vehicle malfunction or be involved in a traffic collision. Knowing the correct procedures for handling these high-stress situations is critical for personal safety and is a legal requirement in Minnesota. This knowledge helps prevent a bad situation from becoming worse and is a key component of being a responsible driver.

This section outlines the proper responses to common vehicle emergencies, the legal duties of a driver after a collision, and the correct procedure to follow during a traffic stop.

Vehicle Malfunctions

A sudden mechanical failure can be frightening, but a calm, correct response can prevent a crash. The key is to avoid panic and sudden movements.

Tire Blowout

A blowout is a rapid loss of air pressure in a tire, which can cause the vehicle to pull sharply to one side.

1. Grip the Steering Wheel Firmly: The first and most important step is to maintain a tight, two-handed grip on the wheel to counteract the pull.
2. Do Not Slam on the Brakes: Braking hard will worsen the loss of control and can cause the vehicle to spin.
3. Ease Off the Accelerator: Slowly remove your foot from the gas pedal to allow the vehicle to decelerate gradually.
4. Steer Straight: Focus on keeping the vehicle moving straight ahead in its lane as it slows down.
5. Find a Safe Place to Pull Over: Once the vehicle has slowed to a manageable speed, signal and steer completely off the road to a safe location.