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

Experiencing a tire blowout can be a frightening situation, and knowing how to respond is crucial for safety. Gradually slowing down and pulling over safely is the correct response because it allows you to maintain control of the vehicle. When a tire blows out, the vehicle can pull sharply in the direction of the blown tire. By avoiding sudden movements and instead decelerating gently, you reduce the risk of losing control or skidding.

Once you've slowed down, you should look for a safe place to pull over, ideally away from traffic, which also helps in preventing any further accidents or collisions. This method protects both you and other road users while giving you the chance to assess the situation, tire damage, and decide whether you need assistance.

In contrast, accelerating during a blowout could lead to loss of control, while jerking the steering wheel or braking hard could exacerbate the situation and increase the chance of an accident. These alternative actions could lead to a dangerous scenario where the driver may not be able to steer the vehicle effectively or stop in a controlled manner.