What should you do if you see an animal crossing the road?

Answer: C — Slow down and prepare to stop if necessary

When encountering an animal crossing the road, the safest and most responsible action is to slow down and prepare to stop if necessary. This approach helps create a safe environment for both the driver and the animal. Animals can be unpredictable; they may hesitate or change direction unexpectedly, so reducing speed allows drivers to react appropriately to any sudden movements. Additionally, slowing down increases the chance of safely avoiding a collision, which could cause serious injury to both the animal and the occupants of the vehicle. This action aligns with defensive driving principles, focusing on the driver's responsibility to remain aware of potential hazards on the roadway. By choosing to slow down, a driver is actively prioritizing safety over speed and minimizing the risk of an accident.