In case of a tire blowout, what is the first step you should take?

In the event of a tire blowout, the first step to take is to slow down gradually and avoid abrupt steering. This response is crucial because a tire blowout can cause the vehicle to become unstable. Abrupt steering or sudden actions can lead to loss of control, making the situation more dangerous.

By slowing down gradually, a driver can help maintain control of the vehicle. It's essential to allow the vehicle to decelerate naturally rather than braking hard, which could further destabilize the vehicle. Avoiding sharp turns or sudden maneuvers helps to keep the vehicle on a straight path, reducing the risk of an accident.

While turning on hazard lights is an important safety step after beginning to slow down, it is not the immediate action that will help in maintaining control of the vehicle. Accelerating to maintain speed not only risks further loss of control but can also exacerbate the situation in a blowout. Consequently, the priority is to manage speed and steer smoothly to navigate the circumstances safely.