If you encounter a distracted driver on a handheld cell phone, what is a recommended action to enhance your safety?

If you encounter a distracted driver on a handheld cell phone, what is a recommended action to enhance your safety?

• A. Flash headlights or tap your brake lights to get their attention.
• B. Move to the right (if you can safely) to encourage the driver to pass you.
• C. Attempt to make eye contact and motion for them to hang up the phone.
• D. Honk your horn.

Answer: (B)

When facing a driver who is distracted by a handheld phone, your safety hinges on creating space and reducing exposure. If you can do so safely, moving to the right to let that vehicle pass gives you a larger buffer and keeps you out of their path in case they drift or brake suddenly. This non-confrontational adjustment minimizes risk without relying on the other driver noticing you. Flashing lights, tapping your brake, trying to make eye contact, or honking can startle or provoke an unpredictable reaction and aren’t reliable ways to improve safety. If moving over isn’t possible, slow down and increase your following distance while scanning for other hazards.

When facing a driver who is distracted by a handheld phone, your safety hinges on creating space and reducing exposure. If you can do so safely, moving to the right to let that vehicle pass gives you a larger buffer and keeps you out of their path in case they drift or brake suddenly. This non-confrontational adjustment minimizes risk without relying on the other driver noticing you.

Flashing lights, tapping your brake, trying to make eye contact, or honking can startle or provoke an unpredictable reaction and aren’t reliable ways to improve safety. If moving over isn’t possible, slow down and increase your following distance while scanning for other hazards.