While passing another vehicle on a two-way road, if the engine misses and speed decreases, what should you do?

• A. Speed up to pass
• B. Continue the pass
• C. Stop and pull over
• D. Return to your lane

Answer: (D)

When you’re passing on a two-lane road, you’re momentarily in the other vehicle’s lane, so finishing the pass quickly and safely is essential. If the engine misses and speed drops, you can’t reliably clear the other vehicle or get back into your lane before oncoming traffic arrives. The safest move is to return to your own lane as soon as it’s safe, signaling and checking mirrors and blind spots, then slow down and find a safe place to pull over if the mechanical issue continues. Trying to speed up to finish the pass or continuing in the opposing lane increases the risk of a head-on collision, and stopping in the roadway is dangerous. Returning to your lane promptly minimizes exposure to opposing traffic.