How should a driver react to a sudden stop on a busy highway?

Using hazard lights and slowing down with caution is the safest way to react to a sudden stop on a busy highway. Activating hazard lights alerts other drivers to a potential issue, signaling that there is danger ahead or that your vehicle is not moving as expected. This alertness can help prevent further accidents, as other drivers will be more likely to notice your situation and adjust their speed and positioning accordingly.

Slowing down with caution allows the driver to assess the unfolding situation, reducing the potential for a rear-end collision or becoming part of a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles. Maintaining control of the vehicle while preparing to either come to a complete stop or safely navigate away from the danger is critical in preventing injury to yourself and others.

In contrast, accelerating to clear the lane quickly can lead to dangerous maneuvers that might put you and other drivers in jeopardy. Abruptly changing lanes can cause collisions, as other drivers may not anticipate such movements. Ignoring the situation, even if no collision occurs, is irresponsible, as it fails to acknowledge that the problem could escalate and affect many others on the highway.