What should a driver do if they encounter a tire blowout while driving?

When a driver experiences a tire blowout, the recommended action is to steer straight and gently apply the brakes to slow down. This approach is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle and preventing loss of traction. A tire blowout can cause the vehicle to swerve or pull to one side, and overreacting by making sharp turns or sudden movements could lead to a more severe loss of control or a rollover.

Gently applying the brakes helps the driver slow the vehicle down in a controlled manner. It also allows for better stabilization of the vehicle, as hard or sudden braking can exacerbate the situation by causing the vehicle to skid or veer off course.

In contrast, panicking and braking hard immediately can lead to dangerous outcomes, as this abrupt action could destabilize the vehicle. Making a sharp turn is not advisable due to the increased risk of skidding or flipping, especially with one tire compromised. Accelerating is also counterproductive, as it could worsen the situation by increasing the speed at which the driver is losing control. Therefore, the proper response in the case of a tire blowout is to remain calm, steer straight, and apply the brakes gently to ensure a safe and controlled stop.