What should you do if your tire blows out while driving?

When a tire blows out while driving, the safest and most effective response is to steer straight and gradually slow down. This approach helps maintain control of the vehicle, allowing you to manage the situation more effectively.

By keeping your steering steady and allowing the car to coast to a safe stop, you can avoid potentially dangerous maneuvers that might lead to losing control. A blowout typically causes the vehicle to pull to one side, but by steering straight, you counteract this effect and stabilize the vehicle. Gradually reducing your speed rather than braking sharply helps prevent skidding or losing traction, which can lead to further accidents.

Other actions, such as braking hard or accelerating, can create instability. A sudden stop can cause the vehicle to skid or flip over, and acceleration can make it even harder to control the vehicle. Maneuvering sharply to the nearest exit can also lead to loss of control, risking an accident. Therefore, the recommended method of steering straight and decelerating gently is the best course of action when experiencing a tire blowout.