What must you do if you experience a tire blowout while driving?

Experiencing a tire blowout can be a frightening situation while driving, but knowing how to react is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle. Gradually slowing down and steering straight is the correct response because it helps you retain control of the vehicle while coming to a stop. When a tire blows, the vehicle will typically pull towards the side of the blowout. By steering straight, you counteract this pull and prevent swerving, which could lead to losing control or an accident.

Abrupt actions, such as accelerating quickly or braking hard, can exacerbate the situation. Quick acceleration may cause instability, while braking suddenly can lead to skidding. Additionally, steering to the right or left abruptly can lead to a loss of control, increasing the risk of a rollover or collision. Therefore, the safest approach is to remain calm, avoid sudden maneuvers, and gradually reduce speed until you come to a safe stop.