What does a flat tire affect?

A flat tire significantly affects vehicle handling and stopping distances due to the loss of tire pressure, which alters the way the vehicle interacts with the road surface. When a tire is flat, it cannot maintain adequate contact with the road, resulting in less responsive steering and diminished stability during turns or sudden maneuvers. This can make the vehicle harder to control, increasing the likelihood of losing traction.

Additionally, stopping distances are negatively impacted because a flat tire can reduce the vehicle's ability to decelerate effectively. The compromised grip on the road means that the brakes may not be as effective, leading to longer stopping distances than what would typically be experienced with properly inflated tires. Consequently, safe driving is severely compromised, making this factor critical for both driver and passenger safety.

While other aspects may be affected by a flat tire, like fuel efficiency and comfort, the most immediate and critical concerns are how a flat tire impacts handling and stopping, making this the most relevant answer.