How should you handle a tire blowout while driving a tractor-trailer?

When experiencing a tire blowout in a tractor-trailer, it is essential to hold the steering wheel steady and gradually slow down. This approach allows for better control of the vehicle during a potentially dangerous situation. A tire blowout can cause the vehicle to pull to one side; maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel helps the driver counteract this pull effectively without making sudden movements that could lead to loss of control.

Gradually slowing down gives the driver time to assess the situation and safely maneuver the vehicle to the shoulder of the road if necessary. This method minimizes the risk of further incidents, such as skidding or crashing, which can occur if abrupt inputs like slamming on the brakes are made.

In contrast, other methods such as slamming on the brakes can lead to a dangerous situation where the driver might lose control. Steering against the direction of a skid is appropriate in some situations, but in the case of a blowout, it may not address the immediate need to control the vehicle's speed and direction effectively. Accelerating to regain control is also not safe; it could worsen the situation by increasing the instability of the vehicle during the blowout.

Overall, holding the steering wheel steady and gradually reducing speed is the best practice for maintaining control and