What action should you take if traffic ahead of you is slowing down?

When traffic ahead is slowing down, starting to brake to slow down is the safest and most appropriate action. This response allows for a gradual deceleration, helping to maintain a safe following distance and avoid a collision. Reducing speed is crucial because it prepares you for a potential stop and ensures that you can react to any sudden changes in traffic conditions.

By braking, you give yourself the time and space needed to respond to the vehicle ahead. This action is particularly important in maintaining overall road safety, as it helps to prevent rear-end accidents, which are common in situations of sudden traffic slowdowns.

In contrast, increasing your speed could lead to a higher risk of an accident, as you may not be able to stop in time if the vehicles ahead come to a complete stop. Maintaining your speed might seem like keeping distance, but it could also mean you’re not adjusting to the traffic conditions appropriately. Changing lanes could be an option in some scenarios, but only if it can be done safely and legally; however, it does not address the immediate need to slow down given the situation.