Call roadside assistance to handle the tire change

If you are unable to change the tire yourself, feel unsafe doing so, or lack the necessary equipment, calling roadside assistance gets a trained technician to your location to swap the tire for you. This is the safest option in bad weather, heavy traffic, or at night.

Steps

1. Pull as far off the road as possible, turn on hazard lights, and stay inside the vehicle if traffic is close.
2. Call your roadside assistance provider -- AAA, your auto insurance, or your vehicle manufacturer's program.
3. Provide your exact location, vehicle make/model, and describe the situation.
4. Wait for the technician to arrive and perform the tire change.

Tips

• Many auto insurance policies include free roadside assistance -- check yours before paying for a separate membership
• Save your provider's phone number in your contacts before you need it
• If you have no membership, many services will still come for a flat fee, typically ranging from $50 to $100