When confronted suddenly by a hazard on the road, what is the best action to take?

Decelerating and applying the footbrake firmly is the best action to take when confronted suddenly by a hazard on the road. This response helps to reduce speed, which is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle. By slowing down, you maximize the time and space you have to evaluate the situation and decide on the safest course of action, whether that involves stopping, steering around the hazard, or choosing another avoidance strategy.

In an emergency scenario, the ability to slow the vehicle can lead to a safer outcome, such as minimizing potential damage in a collision or avoiding a hazard entirely. It also allows for more time to react to the hazard, ensuring that you can make a well-considered decision instead of acting impulsively.

While steering away from the hazard could be beneficial, if the vehicle is traveling at high speeds, a sudden turn could lead to loss of control and potentially result in a collision with other vehicles or obstacles. Accelerating is generally not advisable as it increases speed and decreases reaction time, thereby heightening the risk of an accident. Sounding the horn continuously might alert others but does not effectively address the immediate danger or help the driver respond safely.