Hawaii Drivers Permit Practice Test

What should you do if you experience a tire blowout while driving?

1. Slam on the brakes immediately

2. Steer to a stop while gripping the steering wheel

3. Accelerate to maintain control

4. Turn on the emergency flashers and keep driving

The correct answer is: Steer to a stop while gripping the steering wheel

When experiencing a tire blowout, the safest and most effective response is to steer to a stop while gripping the steering wheel. This approach allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle, as sudden drastic actions can lead to loss of control. The vehicle may pull to one side, and firmly holding the steering wheel helps to counteract this pulling motion. Gradually easing off the accelerator, avoiding sharp turns or sudden braking, and bringing the vehicle to a complete stop in a safe area is crucial. This not only helps the driver remain in control but also ensures the safety of any passengers and other road users. The other suggested actions could lead to dangerous situations. Slamming on the brakes suddenly can cause the vehicle to skid or roll over, particularly if the rear tire is blown. Accelerating typically exacerbates loss of control in a blowout situation, making it more challenging to manage the steering. Although turning on emergency flashers is important for alerting other drivers once the vehicle is safely stopped, continuing to drive with a blowout is unsafe and can lead to further loss of control.