New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesEasy
A driver notices a child's toy roll into the street from behind a parked car. What is the most appropriate defensive driving action to take?
- AHonk your horn continuously to alert any potential child.
- BContinue driving at the same speed, assuming no child will follow.
- CPrepare to stop and be aware that a child might dart into the street.
- DSpeed up to pass the area quickly before a child can follow.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Prepare to stop and be aware that a child might dart into the street.
When a child's toy rolls into the street, it's a strong indicator that a child might be nearby and could follow the toy without looking. The safest defensive driving action is to slow down, prepare to stop, and be vigilant.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While honking can alert, it doesn't replace the need to slow down and prepare to stop.
- B. Assuming no child will follow is negligent and extremely dangerous in such a situation.
- D. Speeding up is dangerous as it reduces reaction time if a child suddenly appears.
Anticipating Child Behavior
Always expect children to act unpredictably around roads, especially if toys are present, and be prepared to stop.
- Children may not understand traffic dangers.
- Toys in the road are a warning sign.
- Be ready to stop suddenly.
Memory trick: Toy means boy, or girl, so slow and prepare to stop, never ignore!