SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-blowout-tire

What should you do if a tire blows out while you are driving?

Hold the wheel tightly and slowly ease off the gas.

  1. Brake hard right away
  2. Hold the wheel tightly and slowly ease off the gas ✔
  3. Swerve onto the shoulder at once

Why: A blowout can pull the car to one side. Grip the wheel, ease off the gas slowly, and do not brake until the car is under control. Then pull off when it is safe.

Huh, didn't know that: A thumping sound can be a warning that a blowout is about to happen.

The dad joke
Why did the tire go to the doctor? It needed some air support!
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References

Answer: Hold the wheel tightly and slowly ease off the gas. A blowout can pull the car to one side. Grip the wheel, ease off the gas slowly, and do not brake until the car is under control. Then pull off when it is safe.

  1. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 10: Special Driving Conditions dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-10-special-driving-conditions
    If a tire blows out, hold the steering wheel tightly and slowly take your foot off the gas pedal.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. California Driver's Handbook, Section 8: Safe Driving (Continued) www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/safe-driving-cont2
    Suddenly braking or abruptly removing your foot from the accelerator can result in a loss of control over the vehicle.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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