Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
A driver is experiencing a sudden tire blowout while traveling at highway speed. What is the immediate and safest action the driver should take?
- AImmediately accelerate to regain control and then pull over.
- BSlam on the brakes and steer sharply to the shoulder.
- CShift the vehicle into neutral and then apply the emergency brake.
- DMaintain a firm grip on the steering wheel, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight.
In a tire blowout, the vehicle will pull strongly in one direction. The immediate and safest action is to firmly grip the steering wheel to maintain control, gently ease off the accelerator to slow down gradually, and steer straight ahead until the vehicle has slowed sufficiently to safely pull over.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Accelerating will worsen the loss of control and increase danger.
- B. Slamming on the brakes can cause loss of control, especially with a blown tire.
- C. Shifting to neutral and using the emergency brake at highway speeds is dangerous and can cause a skid.
Tire Blowout Response
The correct emergency procedure to safely manage a sudden tire blowout while driving.
- Vehicle will pull strongly.
- Sudden braking is dangerous.
- Maintaining control of steering is paramount.
Memory trick: Grip, Glide, Guide.