American Safety Council Defensive Driving Practice Exam

Pulling over to a safe area to manage distractions is the safest approach while driving. When drivers encounter distractions, whether it's a phone call, a passenger’s conversation, or something else, it can significantly impair their focus on the road. By moving the vehicle to a safe location, such as a parking lot or rest area, drivers can eliminate the risks associated with trying to manage distractions while still operating the vehicle. This practice ensures complete attention can be given to resolving the distraction without compromising safety for themselves or others on the road.

In contrast, addressing distractions when they occur while driving can lead to dangerous situations, as it diverts attention from the critical task of driving. Ignoring distractions completely does not resolve them and may lead to a buildup of stress or potential hazards, while multitasking while driving increases the likelihood of errors or accidents, as the driver is not fully concentrating on the primary duty of controlling the vehicle. Prioritizing safety by pulling over to handle distractions is essential for responsible driving.