How should you respond to a tire blowout?

When responding to a tire blowout, it is crucial to maintain control of the vehicle to ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road. Gradually slowing down is the appropriate course of action because it allows the driver to retain steering control while reducing speed. Keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel helps in managing the sudden changes in the vehicle's behavior that occur after a blowout.

In this situation, accelerating quickly can lead to loss of control, making it more difficult to handle the vehicle. Steering sharply to pull off the road can cause the vehicle to lose balance, particularly if the blowout is on the front tire, which would affect steering ability. Applying the brakes hard can cause the vehicle to skid or tip, especially if it is a large vehicle like a bus or truck. Thus, the safest response is to maintain control by firmly gripping the steering wheel and gradually decreasing speed.