How should you respond to a tire blowout?

When experiencing a tire blowout, the safest course of action is to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and gently slow down. This approach helps maintain control of the vehicle as the blowout can cause it to pull to one side or become unstable. By gripping the steering wheel tightly, the driver can manage these sudden changes in direction, ensuring that they don't overcorrect and potentially lose control.

Gradually decelerating allows the driver to bring the vehicle to a stop safely while avoiding sudden movements that could exacerbate the situation. It is important to avoid slamming the brakes, as this can lead to skidding or loss of control. Instead, a gentle reduction in speed will help the driver safely navigate to the side of the road.

A direct and abrupt maneuver off the road may increase the risk of losing control, while braking hard might lead to a skid. Accelerating would further complicate control, making it an unsafe response to a blowout. Therefore, the recommended response emphasizes maintaining control through steady handling and careful deceleration.