What action should you take if there is an obstruction ahead after your right wheels leave the pavement?
Answer: B — Pump the brakes
When your right wheels leave the pavement and you encounter an obstruction ahead, pumping the brakes is advisable to help regain control of your vehicle. This technique involves applying pressure to the brakes in a controlled manner rather than slamming them. By doing so, you can slow down effectively while maintaining stability, which is crucial when operating on a surface that is not level or is less secure than the pavement. Pumping the brakes helps prevent skidding and allows you to maintain traction, especially on unpaved surfaces where grip may be compromised. This measured approach gives you more time to assess the situation and to decide the next best course of action. In contrast, steering sharply, either right or left, could lead to loss of control, especially if the vehicle is already situated on an unstable surface. Shifting into neutral would not be effective in this situation, as it could result in the car rolling uncontrollably. Thus, pumping the brakes promotes safety and control while navigating away from the obstruction.