If you encounter a suspected distracted driver, your first step should be to

• A. Honk to alert them
• B. Put more space between you and that driver
• C. Slow down and maintain position
• D. Stop and ask them to pull over

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to create a safety buffer between you and a suspected distracted driver. Increasing the distance gives you more time to react if they drift or brake unpredictably, reducing the chance of a collision and giving you space to maneuver or slow down gradually if needed. Honking can startle the driver and provoke unpredictable moves, which may raise the risk rather than lower it. Slowing down and maintaining position doesn’t provide extra room to recover if they drift into your lane, leaving you in a vulnerable situation. Stopping and asking them to pull over places you in traffic and can lead to a confrontation or additional hazards. By widening the gap, you’re prioritizing time and space to respond safely while you keep scanning the road and, if safe, consider changing lanes to pass when appropriate.