Texas Drivers Ed Written Practice Test

How should you handle a tire blowout while driving?

1. Brake suddenly to control the vehicle

2. Remain calm, do not brake suddenly, and steer to a safe area

3. Turn on your hazard lights and stop immediately

4. Accelerate to maintain speed

The correct answer is: Remain calm, do not brake suddenly, and steer to a safe area

When experiencing a tire blowout while driving, the best approach is to remain calm, avoid making sudden movements, and steer the vehicle to a safe area. This option is correct because a tire blowout can cause a loss of control, and sudden braking may further destabilize the vehicle, increasing the risk of swerving or flipping. In this scenario, it's crucial to maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel to help guide the vehicle smoothly in the direction you want to go. Gradually easing off the accelerator allows the car to slow down naturally without abrupt changes that could lead to a loss of control. Finding a safe area, such as a shoulder or parking lot, is essential to minimize danger to yourself and other drivers. Other options may suggest actions that could lead to less safe outcomes. For instance, braking suddenly may cause the vehicle to skid or become more difficult to control, while stopping immediately could put you at risk if you're still on a busy roadway. Accelerating when faced with a blowout would exacerbate the situation, making it more difficult to handle the vehicle effectively. Hence, remaining calm and steering to safety is the most effective response in this scenario.