What steps should you take if the engine stalls while driving?

• A. Shift to neutral, turn on hazards, try to start the car, then leave the road.
• B. Turn off the engine and coast to a stop.
• C. Accelerate to exit the road.
• D. Continue driving and ignore warning lights.

Answer: (A)

Handling a stall while moving is about staying in control, signaling your situation, and getting to a safe place off the roadway. Shifting to neutral reduces engine load so you can coast more smoothly and keep some steering and braking control, which helps you manage the vehicle even without engine power. Turning on the hazards alerts others that you’re stalled and need space. Trying to restart the engine gives you a chance to regain power if it starts again. Once you’re able, leave the road and move to a safe area, such as the shoulder, where you’re out of traffic and can reassess or wait for help. This sequence prioritizes safety and maintainable control. The other options either don’t provide warning to other drivers, risk losing control, or keep you in traffic without a plan to reach a safe spot.