What should a driver do if they encounter a disabled vehicle on the roadway?

When encountering a disabled vehicle on the roadway, the appropriate action a driver should take is to slow down, change lanes if safe, and continue driving. This response prioritizes safety for both the driver and the occupants of the disabled vehicle. By slowing down, the driver reduces the chance of a collision, as disabled vehicles may pose an unexpected hazard on the road, especially if they are in a lane of traffic.

Changing lanes, if it can be done safely, helps create a buffer zone between the moving vehicle and the disabled one, further ensuring safety. This method also adheres to the "Move Over" laws in many areas, which require drivers to provide space for emergency vehicles and certain other disabled vehicles on the road.

While offering assistance or reporting the vehicle can be noble actions, they may not be practical or safe in every situation. Stopping could put both the assisting driver and the passengers in danger if they are in a traffic lane or if other vehicles are approaching quickly. Thus, maintaining a safe distance while ensuring the safety of all involved is the best approach.