What should you do if you experience engine failure while driving?

The best course of action when experiencing engine failure while driving is to pull over safely and stop the vehicle. This response prioritizes safety for both the driver and other road users. By safely bringing the vehicle to a stop, the driver can prevent further complications that could arise from losing control of the vehicle in traffic or potentially causing an accident.

This option allows you to assess the situation without endangering yourself or other drivers. Once safely parked, you can evaluate the issue more effectively and determine the next steps, whether that be contacting roadside assistance or troubleshooting the problem.

The other choices, while they may seem logical, could lead to dangerous situations. Accelerating to move out of danger could result in a loss of control, especially if the engine fails completely. Shifting to neutral and coasting might not provide the necessary control over the vehicle, especially if it's turning or on a slope. Turning off the ignition immediately could disable essential systems that help with steering and braking, making it harder to control the vehicle during a critical moment. Therefore, pulling over safely is the correct and safest action to take in the event of engine failure.