What should you do if a tire is flat?

When a tire is flat, the most appropriate and safest action is to change the tire immediately. This is important for several reasons. Driving on a flat tire can cause further damage to the tire's structure, lead to loss of control of the vehicle, and potentially result in a blowout, creating dangerous situations for both the driver and others on the road.

Changing the tire right away minimizes the risk of injuries and accidents that could occur from continuing to drive. Furthermore, a flat tire can also cause damage to the wheel itself, leading to more costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

While waiting for assistance might seem reasonable in some cases, it's generally better to take action yourself if it's safe to do so. Simply inflating the tire without inspecting it can lead to more serious issues since the root cause of the flat (like a puncture) may not be adequately addressed.

Thus, changing the tire immediately is the most responsible choice when faced with a flat tire situation, ensuring personal and public safety on the road.