Between potholes, construction zones and the occasional stray nail, flat tires are a fact of life around New Orleans. Here's exactly what to do when it happens — and how to keep a bad moment from turning into a bad day.
1. Get somewhere safe first
As soon as you feel the thump or see the warning light, slow down gradually. Don't slam the brakes. Signal and move as far off the road as you can — a shoulder, a side street, or a parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights.
On an interstate like I-10 or I-610, or on a narrow shoulder, it's usually safest to stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on rather than standing near traffic.
2. Don't keep driving on it
Driving even a short distance on a flat can destroy the tire and bend the wheel. A nail hole that could have been repaired can turn into a full tire replacement — or a new rim.
3. Figure out where you are
Note the nearest cross street, exit number or mile marker. Most phones can share a map pin by text, which is the fastest way for help to find you.
4. Decide: change it yourself or call for help
Changing a tire yourself is fine if you're in a safe spot, you have a good spare and a jack, and you're comfortable doing it. But call for help if:
- You're on a busy road or narrow shoulder
- Your spare is flat, missing or you're not sure it's safe
- You can't loosen the lug nuts or you don't have the locking lug key
- It's dark, raining or you just don't want to
5. Find your tire size
Look on the side of the tire for a code like 225/65R17. If you need a replacement tire, that number lets a mobile tire service bring the right one the first time.
How Titan handles flats
Titan is a 24/7 mobile tire service based in Metairie. We come to you and either put your spare on, repair the puncture, or install a new or used tire on the spot. No shop visit, no waiting room. Call (504) 339-3708.