What should be your first action if you notice a driver merging into your lane?

When you notice a driver merging into your lane, the safest and most responsible action is to slow down to allow the driver to merge safely. This approach prioritizes safety for both drivers involved, as it creates an opportunity for the merging vehicle to enter your lane without the risk of collision.

By reducing your speed, you provide the other driver with the necessary space and time to complete their maneuver, which helps to prevent accidents caused by abrupt lane changes or collisions. This action reflects a defensive driving mindset, focusing on the safety of all road users.

Other choices might not promote safety effectively. For instance, sounding your horn could startle the merging driver, potentially leading to erratic behavior. Accelerating to maintain your position could result in a collision, as it doesn’t accommodate the other driver’s need to merge. Changing lanes immediately without ensuring it is safe to do so might create further complications or hazards for other drivers on the road. Therefore, slowing down serves as a proactive and thoughtful response to the situation.