California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Safe Driving PracticesMedium
You are driving on a freeway and notice a car several car lengths ahead of you is driving erratically, weaving within its lane, and occasionally braking without apparent reason. What is the safest course of action?
- AIncrease your following distance, move to another lane if safe, and consider reporting the driver.
- BImmediately speed up and pass the vehicle to get away from it.
- CMaintain your speed and observe the vehicle closely to see what happens.
- DFlash your high beams to alert the driver to their erratic behavior.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Increase your following distance, move to another lane if safe, and consider reporting the driver.
An erratic driver poses a significant hazard. Increasing your following distance and changing lanes creates a safety buffer. Reporting the driver to law enforcement, when safe to do so, helps remove a dangerous situation from the road.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Speeding up to pass an erratic driver increases your risk of a collision.
- C. Maintaining speed keeps you in close proximity to a potential hazard.
- D. Flashing high beams could agitate the driver or be misinterpreted, potentially escalating the situation.
Dealing with Erratic Drivers
When encountering a driver exhibiting erratic or unsafe behavior, prioritize creating distance and avoiding engagement to ensure your safety.
- Erratic driving can indicate impairment, distraction, or fatigue.
- Do not engage with or provoke an erratic driver.
- Report dangerous drivers to law enforcement when it is safe to do so.
Memory trick: Erratic drivers are like loose cannons; keep your distance and let the authorities handle it.