CDL Vehicle Combination Practice Test

In the event of a tire blowout on a trailer, the best course of action is to gradually steer in a straight line and reduce speed. This method allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle while dealing with the sudden loss of stability that can occur with a blown tire. By steering straight, the driver minimizes the risk of losing control or causing the trailer to sway, which can lead to a more dangerous situation. Gradually reducing speed rather than slamming on the brakes helps prevent the vehicle from becoming unstable, as sudden braking can cause the trailer to skid or the tow vehicle to pitch forward, complicating the situation further.

This approach is rooted in the principle of maintaining composure and control in a potentially hazardous circumstance, ensuring the driver can guide the vehicle safely off the road when possible. It’s important for drivers to remember that their vehicle's dynamics change significantly with a tire failure, particularly for combinations like trucks and trailers, where the trailer's behavior can be quite different from that of the tow vehicle.