If you must stop on a curve, what should you determine first?

• A. Determine the safest escape path for stopping.
• B. Immediately brake hard in the curve.
• C. Stop in the curve as soon as possible.
• D. Ignore the obstacle and continue.

Answer: (A)

When you must stop on a curve, your first step is to determine the safest escape path for stopping. Curves limit your visibility and traction, so locking up the brakes or stopping right in the curve can cause a skid or loss of control. By identifying the safest escape route—such as steering toward the shoulder or another clear area where you can decelerate safely—you create space to slow down and stop without posing a hazard to oncoming traffic. Braking hard in a curve increases the risk of losing control, stopping in the curve keeps you in the danger of traffic, and simply continuing without addressing the obstacle is unsafe. Focus on finding that safe place to go, then manage your speed to stop there.