India experiences one of the highest accident rates globally, with many of these accidents stemming from insufficient vehicle maintenance. An incident on the Lucknow – Agra Expressway serves as a stark reminder of how neglecting proper tyre maintenance can result in a serious accident.
The incident was captured by the dashboard camera of a Honda Jazz hatchback. The footage shows the Jazz traveling at a moderate speed in the middle lane of the expressway. Suddenly, a Honda City attempting to overtake the Jazz loses control and collides with the hatchback. Subsequently, the City spins out of control, blocking the Jazz’s path. The Jazz collides with the City once more before coming to a stop.
Both vehicles suffered significant damage. However, remarkably, despite this high-speed collision, the occupants of both vehicles emerged unharmed. The City lost control due to a tyre blowout. While the exact tyre condition and factors like tyre pressure are not confirmed, the use of old tyres or failure to maintain proper pressure can lead to such incidents.
Tyre blowouts are extremely perilous, and there have been numerous instances of sudden tyre blowouts causing vehicles to lose control and crash. These events unfold rapidly, leaving drivers with little time to react. On fast highways, such incidents can result in drivers losing control and colliding with medians, going off the road, crashing into other vehicles or objects, or even rolling over at high speeds, potentially leading to fatal injuries or fatalities.
To avoid tyre blowouts and ensure your safety on the road, it’s essential to follow proper tyre maintenance practices and be aware of potential risk factors. Here are some tips to help you prevent tyre blowouts: