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What is the best response to a tire blowout while driving?

  1. Brake hard to stop quickly

  2. Steer straight and gradually slow down

  3. Accelerate to maintain control

  4. Turn on hazard lights and speed up

The correct answer is: Steer straight and gradually slow down

When experiencing a tire blowout while driving, the best response is to steer straight and gradually slow down. This approach is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle. When a tire blows out, it can cause the vehicle to pull sharply to one side; however, by keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel and steering straight, you can counteract the pull. Gradually decelerating allows for a more controlled stop without the risk of skidding or losing control, which can occur if a driver brakes suddenly or sharply. In addition, other reactions can lead to dangerous situations. For example, braking hard could cause loss of traction and potentially result in a spin-out. Accelerating in response to a blowout can exacerbate the situation, making it harder to manage the vehicle. Lastly, turning on hazard lights and speeding up would also create a precarious situation, as it leads to further loss of control and increases the risk of an accident. Therefore, maintaining a steady grip on the wheel, steering straight, and gradually slowing down is the safest and most effective response.