Courtesy Driving School State Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

When you see brake lights ahead, the best course of action is to slow down and prepare to stop. This practice is crucial because brake lights indicate that the vehicles in front of you are decelerating or coming to a halt. By reducing your speed, you are allowing yourself more time to react and navigate the situation safely, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. This approach ensures that you can come to a complete stop without abruptly slamming on the brakes, which can cause accidents not only for you but also for drivers behind you.

Maintaining speed may not allow you enough time to safely react to sudden stops, while accelerating to pass can lead to dangerous circumstances, especially if the traffic situation changes rapidly. Quickly switching lanes could also create hazards as it may not be clear whether another lane offers a safer condition; it could lead to collisions with other vehicles or obstructed views. By slowing down and preparing to stop, you prioritize safety for yourself and others on the road.