If a tire suddenly goes flat while driving, you should...

• A. Hold the steering wheel tightly and keep the vehicle straight
• B. Brake immediately
• C. Steer sharply and brake
• D. Speed up to the nearest exit

Answer: (A)

When a tire goes flat, the main thing you need is to maintain control of the car. A blowout can pull the vehicle toward the flat tire and make steering feel unstable. Holding the steering wheel firmly and keeping the car as straight as possible helps you manage that sudden change in direction. Avoid braking hard or making sharp steering moves, because both can cause the vehicle to lose control or skid. Instead, ease off the accelerator gradually to slow down and steer straight toward a safe area off the roadway. Once stopped in a safe spot, use your hazards and assess how to proceed.