When confronted with a tire blowout, what is a critical first step to take?

When faced with a tire blowout, one of the most critical steps is to hold the steering wheel firmly and gradually ease off the accelerator. This action helps maintain control of the vehicle as it may suddenly veer in the direction of the blowout. Easing off the accelerator allows the car to slow down naturally, which is safer than making abrupt movements, which could lead to loss of control.

Maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel ensures that you can guide the vehicle straight and reduce the risk of swerving or spinning out. This technique focuses on stabilizing the vehicle's trajectory rather than attempting to stop suddenly or accelerate, both of which can further complicate the situation and increase the risk of an accident.

In contrast, options involving hard braking or sudden acceleration can cause a loss of vehicle control. Immediately turning on hazard lights and stopping can also be risky unless you can do so in a safe manner, as it may lead to collision if you are on a busy road. The emphasis is on stabilizing the vehicle before deciding the safest course of action afterward.