This Week's Auto Tip from J&C Auto Service, Downers Grove

To survive a tire blowout:

If a tire blows:

Squeeze the gas pedal for a couple of seconds.
This puts you in control of the car and directs the car straight down the road.
It also prevents you from committing the mortal sins of braking and turning.
After a couple of seconds, gently and smoothly release the accelator pedal.
The drag force of a completely flat tire is so potent that pushing the gas will not allow the vehicle to go faster.

Most importantly, drive straight down your lane.

Keep your feet away from the brake (or clutch).

Allow the car to coast down to as slow a speed as is safe (30 mph is good).

Engage your turn signal and gently turn toward the shoulder of the road that's on the same side as the blown tire:
This lessens your chance of losing control and will make the tire change safer. If the situation requires, 
you may ever so lightly squeeze the brakes.

Almost all highway blowouts and tread separations occur with the car traveling in a straight line on a very hot day at
high speeds with an underinflated tire. The repeated flexing of an underinflated tire causes the failure.

Visually inspect and check your tire pressure!!

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