What should you do if you have a flat tire while driving?

When you experience a flat tire while driving, the most appropriate action is to keep both hands on the wheel and gradually slow down. This method allows you to maintain control of the vehicle while ensuring a safe and steady deceleration. Sudden braking or swerving can cause the vehicle to become unstable, leading to further loss of control, especially at higher speeds or on slippery surfaces.

By gradually reducing your speed, you can safely maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road or to a safe stopping area without risking an accident. It is important to remain calm and focused on handling the situation effectively. After safely pulling over, you can then assess the flat tire and decide on the next steps, whether it be changing the tire or calling for assistance.

The other options do not prioritize safety under such conditions. For example, braking quickly can lead to skidding or rolling the vehicle, and ignoring the flat tire can put you and other drivers at risk. Maintaining speed is also unsafe as it does not allow you to regain control and pull over safely. Thus, keeping both hands on the wheel and gradually slowing down is the best practice in this situation.