What should a driver do if they need to stop suddenly and they cannot signal?

If a driver needs to stop suddenly and cannot use their vehicle's turn signals, employing hand signals is a sensible and effective alternative. Hand signals are a way to communicate intentions to other road users, especially in situations where the vehicle's lights may not be functional or visible.

Using hand signals can alert drivers behind you that you are stopping or slowing down, which helps to prevent collisions and promotes overall road safety. For instance, extending an arm out to the side can indicate that you are stopping or slowing down. This communication is key in ensuring that other drivers are aware of your actions on the road.

Utilizing the horn is not typically the most effective method for alerting drivers to a sudden stop, as honking can create confusion or panic rather than providing clear communication about the driver's intentions. Similarly, braking sharply without a warning may lead to rear-end collisions because other drivers may not have enough time to react. Making loud noises is also not a practical or reliable way to get the attention of other drivers.

In summary, hand signals serve as a clear and understandable way to communicate unexpected stops or slowdowns on the road, promoting safety for both the signaling driver and other motorists.