What is the safest way to respond to a sudden stop in traffic?

The safest way to respond to a sudden stop in traffic is to flash your brake lights to indicate that you are slowing down. This action communicates your intentions clearly to drivers behind you, providing them with advance notice that you are reducing speed. By signaling early, you increase the likelihood that following vehicles can react safely and avoid a collision.

Communicating your braking action assists in maintaining a safe distance and contributes to overall traffic safety, especially in situations where visibility may be limited or when drivers may not expect a sudden stop. This approach is proactive and responsible, as it prioritizes the safety of both yourself and other road users.

Other methods, while they might seem like alternatives, do not effectively convey the need for caution as well as flashing brake lights. For example, revving your engine does not convey your intention to stop, and changing lanes quickly can lead to unsafe maneuvers and potential loss of control. Flashing headlights could alert others but might not effectively communicate that you are decreasing speed. Thus, flashing your brake lights is the most effective and safest choice.