What steps should you take if you experience a tire blowout while driving?

• A. Grip the steering wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator gradually, slow to a safe speed, and pull over safely
• B. Slam on the brakes and stop immediately
• C. Continue driving at the same speed
• D. Turn on hazard lights and continue

Answer: (A)

When a tire blows out, the priority is to keep the vehicle under control and slow down safely. Grip the steering wheel firmly so you can feel and counter any sudden pull toward the flat tire. Ease off the accelerator gradually rather than braking hard, which helps you slow smoothly without upsetting the car’s balance. By reducing speed gradually, you maintain control and avoid skidding or losing the ability to steer. As you slow, steer straight and guide the car to a safe location off the roadway. Once stopped in a safe area, you can warn others with your hazard lights.

Slammed brakes can lock a wheel and send the car into a skid; continuing at the same speed won’t reduce the danger of a blown tire; and turning on hazards while still moving doesn’t address the loss of control or the need to get to a safe stop.