What is the first action you should take when you experience a tire blowout while driving?

When experiencing a tire blowout while driving, the first action you should take is to hold the steering wheel firmly and steer straight. This action is crucial because it helps maintain control of the vehicle. A tire blowout can cause the car to pull to one side, and by keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel, you can counteract this pull and keep the vehicle stable.

Instead of hitting the brakes immediately, which could lead to loss of control, or accelerating to gain control, which is counterintuitive during such a sudden change in vehicle dynamics, focusing on steering helps prevent further complications. Additionally, turning on the hazard lights is important for alerting other drivers but should come after securing control of the vehicle. Thus, maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel while steering straight is the most critical immediate response to a tire blowout.