What action should be taken if a tire blows out while driving?

Answer: C — Keep a firm grip on the wheel and slow down gradually

When a tire blows out while driving, the proper response is to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and slow down gradually. This is crucial to maintain control of the vehicle. A blowout can cause the vehicle to pull toward the side of the flat tire due to the sudden loss of air pressure. By keeping a firm grip on the wheel, the driver can counteract this pull and prevent the vehicle from veering uncontrollably. Gradually easing off the accelerator allows the vehicle to slow down in a controlled manner, which is far safer than making sudden, harsh braking maneuvers that could lead to skidding or loss of control. It is important to avoid sharp steering inputs, as overreacting can result in further loss of control. In contrast, immediately applying brakes or overcorrecting can lead to dangerous situations such as skidding or flipping the vehicle, especially at high speeds. Steering in the direction of the blowout could also result in an unintended collision or loss of vehicle stability. Hence, the best approach is to maintain a steady grip on the wheel and reduce speed without abrupt movements.