Georgia DDS Practice Test

If you have to stop on the shoulder of a freeway due to an emergency, what should you do?

1. Activate your hazard lights, raise the hood to indicate difficulty.

2. Get out of your car and walk for help.

3. Stand behind your car to warn traffic that you have stopped.

4. Do nothing; wait for assistance without indicating.

The correct answer is: Activate your hazard lights, raise the hood to indicate difficulty.

Activating your hazard lights and raising the hood of your vehicle is the recommended action in this scenario because it serves multiple purposes. The hazard lights help alert other drivers that your vehicle is stationary and may pose a hazard on the freeway. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of both you and other motorists, as it signals that there is a problem that requires caution. Raising the hood is a widely recognized signal indicating that a vehicle is experiencing trouble, making it clear to approaching drivers that assistance may be needed. This action, combined with the hazard lights, communicates to others that you are not just parked but are in a situation that requires awareness from those on the road. In contrast, getting out of your car can increase risk, as it places you in a potentially dangerous position on the shoulder, especially on a busy freeway. Standing behind your car to warn traffic may seem proactive, but it can also put you in harm's way, as drivers may not notice you in time. Lastly, doing nothing and waiting for assistance without any signaling can lead to dangerous situations, as other drivers may not be aware of your presence and could inadvertently collide with your vehicle.