When should you check adjacent lanes while handling an emergency like a blown tire?

Checking adjacent lanes before smoothly pulling off the pavement is crucial during an emergency like a blown tire for several reasons related to safety and proper driving techniques.

In such a situation, maintaining awareness of surrounding traffic can prevent additional accidents or hazards. By checking adjacent lanes first, a driver can assess whether it's safe to move to the side of the road without risking a collision with other vehicles. This preemptive action allows for a smooth transition off the pavement, reducing the likelihood of jerking the steering wheel or making abrupt movements that could exacerbate the situation.

Additionally, making this check allows the driver to select the safest possible spot to stop, ideally well off the road where they can attend to the tire issue without being in the way of oncoming traffic. Overall, this approach emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and proactive decision-making in emergency responses.