Which of the following should you do if your tire blows out?

When a tire blows out, the most critical action is to hold the steering wheel firmly and steer straight. This is because a blowout can cause sudden steering difficulties, and overreacting with sharp turns can lead to loss of control of the vehicle. By keeping a steady grip and steering straight, you allow the vehicle to stabilize and slow down safely without veering off the road.

Maintaining your lane is essential to avoid potential hazards on the sides of the road, such as objects, ditches, or other vehicles. After gaining control, you should gradually reduce speed by easing off the accelerator rather than braking hard, which can also destabilize the vehicle.

Actions like steering hard to the right or accelerating are likely to exacerbate the situation, leading to greater loss of control. Similarly, braking immediately can cause skidding, especially if not done gently. Thus, any sudden movement can increase the risk of an accident, making the steady approach of holding the steering wheel firm and going straight the safest response.