Texas Drivers Ed Written Practice Test

What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on the highway?

1. Leave it where it is

2. Turn on your hazard lights and pull over to the shoulder

3. Block traffic until assistance arrives

4. Try to fix it on the highway

The correct answer is: Turn on your hazard lights and pull over to the shoulder

When your vehicle breaks down on the highway, it is vital to prioritize safety for both yourself and other road users. Turning on your hazard lights alerts other drivers that there is a problem, and pulling over to the shoulder of the road provides a safer location away from the main flow of traffic. This increases your visibility and reduces the risk of an accident. It's crucial to remain in your vehicle if you are safely off the roadway and stay buckled up until help arrives, as remaining inside offers protection from potential oncoming traffic. Additionally, this allows you to communicate effectively with roadside assistance services. Other actions, such as leaving your vehicle where it is, would pose significant risks to both you and others on the road by creating a potential obstacle in traffic. Blocking traffic or attempting to fix the vehicle on the highway can result in dangerous situations, not only for you but also for the drivers surrounding you. Keeping yourself and your vehicle in a secure location with warning lights activated is the best approach for safety during a breakdown.