How to Change a Flat Tire Safely on the Roadside

Changing a tire on the shoulder of a busy Nassau County road is riskier than doing it in a driveway, so safety comes before speed.

1. Pull off safely

   Get as far off the road as possible -- never attempt this in an active traffic lane.

2. Make yourself visible

   Turn on your hazard lights and set out reflective triangles or flares if you have them.

3. Secure the vehicle

   Apply the parking brake and use wheel wedges or chocks if you're on an incline.

4. Loosen before you lift

   Loosen the lug nuts slightly before jacking up the car, then finish removing them once the tire is off the ground.

5. Mount the spare

   Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, lower the car, then fully tighten them.

6. Drive cautiously afterward

   Most spares aren't rated for highway speeds or long distances -- head to a repair shop.