What is the first thing you should do if you experience a blowout?

When experiencing a blowout, the most critical first action is to grip the steering wheel firmly. This response is essential because it helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle during a potentially dangerous situation. A blowout can cause the vehicle to veer sharply, and a firm grip on the steering wheel enables the driver to stabilize the vehicle and prevent it from swerving into another lane or losing control entirely.

Proper control of the steering is vital for safely navigating the vehicle to a stop in a controlled manner. Once stability is established, the driver can then safely decelerate and guide the vehicle to the side of the road, away from traffic.

While other actions like accelerating or shifting into neutral may seem counterintuitive during a loss of tire pressure, they can complicate the situation and increase the risk of losing control. Similarly, increasing speed during a blowout is not a safe practice, as it can lead to further destabilizing the vehicle. Therefore, gripping the steering wheel firmly provides the best immediate method to manage the situation effectively.