What is the recommended action if you encounter animals on the roadway?

• A. Stop suddenly.
• B. Slow down, do not swerve; brake gently and steer straight to avoid risk.
• C. Swerve to the left to avoid the animal.
• D. Speed up to pass.

Answer: (B)

The priority is maintaining control and reducing risk by slowing down safely rather than reacting with abrupt moves. When an animal appears on the roadway, ease off the accelerator and brake gently while steering straight and staying in your lane. This combination gives you time to assess the situation, keeps you in your lane to avoid a collision with oncoming traffic or off-road hazards, and helps you avoid overcorrecting.

Stopping suddenly can surprise following drivers and lead to a rear-end crash, while swerving can throw you into another lane or off the road, and speeding up to pass gives you far less time to react to the animal’s movements. If the animal hasn’t cleared yet, slow further or stop in a safe place if needed, and only proceed when it’s safe to do so.