What action is critical when a tire blows out?

When a tire blows out, it is crucial to steer firmly to maintain control of the vehicle. A blowout can cause the car to swerve or veer sharply to one side, depending on which tire has failed. By steering firmly, the driver can counteract this sudden loss of stability and keep the vehicle on its intended path. This action minimizes the risk of losing control and prevents the potential for a more serious accident.

In this situation, simply accelerating or braking hard is inappropriate, as these actions can exacerbate the loss of control. Accelerating may result in further destabilizing the vehicle, while braking hard can cause the tires to lock up, making it even more difficult to steer effectively. Shifting into neutral is not advisable either, as it removes the driver's ability to control the vehicle through acceleration, which is often needed to stabilize the car after a blowout. Overall, maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel and focusing on controlling the vehicle is the most critical action to take in the event of a tire blowout.