If you cannot avoid hitting a large animal, the safest action is to:

Question: If you cannot avoid hitting a large animal, the safest action is to:

Answer options:

• Swerve into oncoming traffic ✅ Brake firmly straight ahead, releasing just before impact
• Accelerate
• Close your eyes

Correct answer: Brake firmly straight ahead, releasing just before impact

Explanation: Braking firmly straight ahead controls your vehicle and reduces impact speed, while releasing the brakes right before collision lifts the hood slightly, keeping the animal from entering the windshield. Swerving into oncoming traffic is highly dangerous, risking a catastrophic head-on crash or rollover, while accelerating increases collision force and closing your eyes removes all control. SAAQ defensive driving rules emphasize staying in your lane and managing braking dynamics during unavoidable wildlife hazards. On the Québec theory exam, remember that maintaining lane control and reducing speed safely is always prioritized over erratic swerving when facing sudden obstacles.