What should you do if you experience a tire blowout?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the Florida CDL General Knowledge Test with interactive flashcards and challenging multiple choice questions, each complete with detailed explanations and review tips. Ace your CDL exam!

Experiencing a tire blowout can be a frightening situation for any driver, especially when operating a commercial vehicle. The correct response is to gradually ease off the accelerator and steer straight. This response is based on the principle of maintaining control of the vehicle. When a tire blows out, the vehicle can pull sharply to one side due to the loss of pressure in the tire. By easing off the accelerator, the driver allows the vehicle to gradually slow down, reducing the risk of losing control and minimizing the impact of the blowout.

Maintaining a steady course without making abrupt steering adjustments is crucial. Sudden movements can lead to skidding or loss of control, especially at high speeds. By steering straight, the driver keeps the vehicle in its lane, helping to ensure a safer and more controlled stop.

The other options involve actions that can exacerbate the situation. For example, applying the brakes hard can cause the vehicle to lose stability and may result in a more severe loss of control. Turning sharply can also lead to disasters as it can throw the vehicle off balance and increase the chances of rollover or further accidents. Speeding up in an attempt to regain control is counterintuitive since increased speed makes it more challenging to manage the vehicle effectively during such a