Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
A driver is driving on a rural road at night. The driver notices deer near the side of the road ahead. What is the safest course of action to avoid a collision?
- ASwear sharply into the opposite lane to bypass the deer.
- BHonk the horn and flash high beams to scare the deer away.
- CSpeed up to pass the deer before they can enter the road.
- DSlow down significantly, be prepared to stop, and avoid swerving.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Slow down significantly, be prepared to stop, and avoid swerving.
When encountering wildlife, the safest action is to slow down, be prepared to stop, and avoid sudden swerving. Swerving can lead to loss of control, a collision with another vehicle, or hitting a fixed object, which can be more dangerous than hitting the animal itself. Honking and flashing lights might startle the deer unpredictably.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Swerving sharply, especially into an oncoming lane, is extremely dangerous and can cause a more severe collision.
- B. Honking and flashing lights can startle deer, causing them to bolt unpredictably into the road.
- C. Speeding up is dangerous as deer can dart into the road quickly, giving you less time to react.
Wildlife Encounter Safety
When wildlife is near the road, slow down, be prepared to stop, and avoid swerving, as swerving can lead to more dangerous accidents.
- Animals are unpredictable.
- Swerving can cause loss of control or collision with other objects/vehicles.
- Braking safely is usually the best option.
Memory trick: Slow and steady, don't swerve, be ready.