If your vehicle has a mechanical problem:
Signal and pull into the slow lane.
Stop in your lane and put on your hazard lights.
Put on your hazard lights and pull off the road.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Put on your hazard lights and pull off the road.
When your vehicle experiences a mechanical problem while on the road, your first priority should be safety—both for you and other drivers. Here’s why this is the correct course of action:
- Signal and pull into the slow lane – This is not the best immediate response because pulling into the slow lane without fully assessing your situation might not guarantee your safety. If you are already in the slow lane, this may be the safest option, but if you are in a faster lane, it could put you at risk of being rear-ended. Moving your vehicle to a safer location off the road is the safest choice.
- Stop in your lane and put on your hazard lights – This action is not safe. Stopping in the middle of the lane can create a significant hazard for other drivers, especially if they are unaware that your vehicle has broken down. Even with hazard lights on, a stopped vehicle in the lane may cause a collision, especially at night or in bad weather.
- Put on your hazard lights and pull off the road – This is the most appropriate response in case of a mechanical failure. Hazard lights immediately signal to other drivers that you are experiencing a problem and that they should proceed with caution. By pulling off the road (preferably to the shoulder or a designated breakdown lane), you reduce the likelihood of your vehicle obstructing traffic or becoming a collision risk. This action also helps protect you from further danger, as other vehicles can pass you safely while you assess the situation and call for assistance.
Additionally, once your vehicle is safely off the road, you should remain inside if it’s safe to do so, and call for roadside assistance or emergency services. Always ensure your car is in a well-lit, visible area to prevent accidents.