Practice question

If you get a flat tire or a tire blows out while driving, what should you do?

  1. Slow down gradually
  2. Keep a tight grip on the steering wheel
  3. Accelerate to stabilize
  4. Brake immediately

Answer: B — Keep a tight grip on the steering wheel

When experiencing a flat tire or blowout, it's essential to respond appropriately to ensure safety. Maintaining a tight grip on the steering wheel is crucial during such an event. This action helps to maintain control of the vehicle, as a tire blowout can cause the car to swerve unexpectedly. With a firm grip, the driver can stabilize the vehicle, preventing it from veering off course. This is especially important because the loss of a tire can make the car unstable, particularly if the front tires are affected. Keeping control allows the driver to safely navigate to a safe spot to stop and assess the situation. While other responses might seem instinctive, they could lead to dangerous outcomes. For instance, repairing the vehicle while expecting a blowout can destabilize it further. Thus, proper steering control is pivotal in safely handling a tire failure situation.

Practice more: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test →