Arizona Driving Permit Written Practice Test

What should a driver do if they experience engine failure while driving?

1. Turn off the car and restart it

2. Coast to a stop without braking

3. Brake hard to stop immediately

4. Shift into neutral and call for help

The correct answer is: Coast to a stop without braking

When a driver experiences engine failure while driving, coasting to a stop without braking is a prudent choice. This approach allows the driver to maintain control of the vehicle and reduces the risk of skidding or losing control, particularly if the road conditions are less than ideal. Coasting can help the driver steer the vehicle safely to the side of the road, which is essential to avoid obstacles or create a safer environment for themselves and others. Utilizing brakes aggressively may cause the vehicle to stop suddenly or skid, which could result in a loss of control or an accident. Turning off the car and attempting to restart it could lead to unsafe situations on the road, especially if the driver does not manage to get the car running again. Shifting into neutral and calling for help could be counterproductive; it removes the ability to steer the vehicle effectively. By coasting to a stop, the driver ensures that they can navigate safely to a more convenient location to assess the situation or get assistance.