Washington Written Drivers Permit Practice Test

How should you deal with an animal that suddenly runs onto the road?

1. Brake hard and let the vehicle skid

2. Slow down and remain alert without swerving

3. Accelerate to avoid hitting the animal

4. Use your horn to scare the animal away

The correct answer is: Slow down and remain alert without swerving

When encountering an animal that suddenly runs onto the road, the best course of action is to slow down and remain alert without swerving. This approach is beneficial because it allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle while reducing speed, minimizing the likelihood of a collision. Additionally, by staying alert, the driver can better assess the situation, taking into account the animal’s movements and any other potential hazards on the road. Swerving to avoid an animal can lead to losing control of the vehicle, which could result in a more dangerous situation involving other vehicles or obstacles. It's also important to recognize that many animals, when startled, may not follow a predictable path. Maintaining a steady speed and being vigilant enhances the driver's ability to react appropriately to the animal's actions. Slowing down also provides more time to react and increases the chance of avoiding an accident without compromising safety.