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Tyres, Maintenance & Roadworthiness

What should I do if a tyre bursts while driving?

Grip the steering wheel firmly, avoid sudden braking or steering and let the vehicle slow so you can stop safely at the side of the road.

nidirect advises keeping control and allowing the vehicle to roll to a stop.

A sudden tyre failure can make the car pull strongly to one side. Smooth inputs help keep it stable while speed reduces.

Once stopped, move to a safe place away from live traffic if possible. Only change the tyre yourself where it can be done without putting anyone at risk; otherwise call breakdown assistance.

For 'What should I do if a tyre bursts while driving?', treat the issue as a current roadworthiness matter rather than something to leave until the next MOT. A valid MOT does not protect you if the vehicle develops a defect afterwards.

Check the current source for 'What should I do if a tyre bursts while driving?' before acting if the relevant rule, policy, fee or eligibility has recently changed. Keep any official confirmation or reference number produced by the process because it can help resolve a later query. This note is specific to answer 464.

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Information checked: 25 September 2026
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