What is the first action to take when encountering an obstacle on the road?

When encountering an obstacle on the road, the best first action is to check for the possibility of swerving to the right. This response is fundamental to maintaining safety while navigating potentially hazardous situations. Swerving may allow a driver to avoid the obstacle without causing a collision, provided it is safe to do so. Checking the area for space and assessing the movement of surrounding vehicles is crucial to ensure that swerving is a viable option and does not lead to further danger.

In driving situations, making quick and calculated decisions can prevent accidents. Rushing to speed up can increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle or crashing into the obstacle. Honking the horn might alert other drivers or pedestrians, but it doesn't directly assist with immediate maneuvering around the obstacle. Ignoring the obstacle may lead to unforeseen consequences, particularly if it turns out to be more significant than initially perceived. Thus, evaluating the ability to safely swerve occurs first and aligns with defensive driving practices aimed at avoiding risks on the road.