I think I would burn a tire after probably day 2, depending on the situation. I have to say though that, in that predicament they were in, the man's best bet would have been to walk back the way they came. Of course, we can all monday-morning -quarterback it. But, better to go to what you know, than venture out into what you THINK you know. 50 miles is a long walk, granted. But, given the fact that they had no navigation aid, other than a map in the truck, we would be truly dead-reckoning his way to a road that may, or may not, be serviceable. At least, walking his route back, he had tracks to follow, for a few days.
Lesson learned though. ALWAYS have a sleeping bag in winter, and some food on hand, at the LEAST, during winter. I could move into my jeep at any time (as I am sure most on this forum could), but, I still fear most people dont think it will happen to them. I cant wait for our first snowstorm in new england; its amazing how many people dont put good winter tires on until AFTER they need them.