Can You Drive With A Nail In Your Tyre?

Have you ever driven over a nail?

When faced with this issue, you might be contemplating whether it is still safe to continue driving or not.

Let’s dive into the safety concerns associated with driving with a nail in your tyre, the risks involved, and what you should do when encountering this situation.

Is It Safe To Drive With A Nail In Your Tyre?

When considering whether to continue driving, you need to assess the size of the nail and the condition of your tyre.

If the nail is small and the tyre is holding air, you may be able to drive a short distance to get to a tyre shop or a safer location. However, it’s crucial to understand that this is only possible if driving a short distance.

Driving with a nail in your tyre for long distances or at high speeds is not advisable. The nail can exacerbate air loss, and this could eventually lead to a blowout.

So, if you intend to drive far or fast, it’s better to avoid it altogether.

Risk Of Driving In This Situation

Loss Of Air

The most immediate risk is a gradual loss of air from the punctured tyre. If not addressed promptly, this can lead to a flat tyre or even a blowout while you’re on the road.

Unbalanced Tyre

A nail can cause your tyre to become unbalanced, leading to vibrations and making it challenging to maintain control of your vehicle, especially at higher speeds.

Tyre Deformation

In some cases, a nail can cause structural damage to the tyre. This deformation can compromise your ability to drive safely and increase the risk of a collision.

What Should You Do If You Find A Nail In Your Tyre

Drive Slowly And Carefully

If you decide to drive to a tyre shop, do so at a slow and steady pace. Avoid sudden movements, sharp turns, and heavy braking.

Pull Over Safely

If you notice a significant loss of air or tyre damage, pull over to the side of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so.

Call For Help

Once you’re safely parked, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck. It’s always better to have a professional evaluate the situation.

Avoid Further Damage

While waiting for assistance, refrain from attempting to remove the nail yourself. You might accidentally cause more damage.

Conclusion

Driving with a nail in your tyre is a temporary solution under specific circumstances. If in doubt, prioritise safety and opt for professional assistance.

Timely attention from a qualified technician can help remove the nail, repair the tyre, or replace it if necessary, ensuring your safety on the road.