A tyre failure on a loaded lorry or trailer is frightening. The first decision is where people can be safe. Tyre assistance comes after the vehicle has stopped in a suitable place and any traffic danger has been dealt with.
1. Get to a place of relative safety
Keep control of the vehicle, avoid sudden manoeuvres and stop where it is safe to do so. The Highway Code guidance on breakdowns says a service area is the safest place to stop on a motorway or other high-speed road, with an emergency area or other designated place of relative safety as alternatives. A damaged tyre may make reaching one impossible; do not force a vehicle that cannot be controlled.
2. Warn traffic and protect people
Use hazard warning lights if the vehicle is an obstruction. Follow the Highway Code and any instructions from the emergency services or road operator for your exact position. Keep people away from the vehicle and moving traffic when possible. Never put out a warning triangle on a motorway, and do not enter a live lane to look at the tyre.
3. Report the exact position
Tell your fleet controller or breakdown provider which road you are on, the direction of travel, nearest junction, marker, services or emergency area, and whether the lorry or trailer is blocking traffic. If there is immediate danger, contact the emergency services. A WhatsApp location link can help once you are in a safe place.
4. Gather tyre details only when safe
For a mobile tyre assessment, the fitter will need the vehicle registration, whether the affected wheel is on the unit or trailer, its wheel position and tyre size if visible. Describe whether the tyre burst, separated or simply lost air. A photo can help, but do not walk around a vehicle exposed to moving traffic to take one.
5. Agree the next step
A burst tyre often needs replacement, but the wheel, adjacent tyres and safe working area may also need attention. A mobile unit cannot work in every roadside position. Tyre size, stock, traffic protection and access determine whether attendance can be confirmed, or whether recovery to a safe location is needed first.
Need help in Milton Keynes or Buckinghamshire?
Once the vehicle is safe, see emergency lorry tyre help in Milton Keynes or contact our 24/7 line. Tell us the exact location first.
Need help now? Call 07403 886279 or send your location and vehicle details on WhatsApp. Our line is available 24/7. We will check the exact location, tyre requirement and safe access before confirming a call-out.