Yeesh, cold people! I usually make it a point to stop and make sure everyone is ok if I come across something like that, it has paid off more than once for the occupants. I suppose its the bystander apathy theory (remember thee kittie genovese case?). Anyways glad to hear she is okay, it sounds like a front tire "blowout" to me as well. The tire probably took a few minutes to get all the way low, so it was just a slow blowout. I doubt the steering would simply begin to flutter without any noticeable noises (such as something breaking). Good thing she is ok--you can always replace cars, not people.

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TC
Current stable:
- 2004 Mazda RALLYWANKEL
- 2007 Saturn sky redline
- 2004 Explorer...under surgery.

Past: 135i, GTI, 300E, 300SD, 300SD, Stealth