What should you do first if you experience a tire blowout while driving at 50 mph?

When experiencing a tire blowout while driving at high speeds, the most important thing to do is stay off the brake until the vehicle slows down. This is essential because abruptly braking can cause the vehicle to lose control due to the sudden change in momentum. Instead, allowing the vehicle to decelerate naturally provides more stability and helps maintain control over steering.

During a blowout, it is crucial to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and steer straight ahead. The vehicle may pull to one side due to the flat tire, but sudden inputs can lead to further loss of control. Once the vehicle has slowed down safely, you can then gradually steer to the side of the road and stop in a secure location before assessing the situation.

While lighting indicators and correct positioning are important later, the immediate reaction to stay off the brakes and maintain control is vital to ensure safety during the initial phase of a blowout.