What should you do if brake lights on a vehicle indicate a problem?

When brake lights on a vehicle indicate a problem, the appropriate response is to reduce your speed and prepare to stop. This is important because brake lights serve as a warning that the vehicle may be slowing down, stopping, or experiencing an issue that could lead to sudden changes in its speed. By slowing down, you give yourself enough time to react to the situation, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This is a critical aspect of defensive driving, which emphasizes the importance of being aware of other vehicles and anticipating their actions.

In contrast to the correct choice, accelerating to pass the vehicle could lead to an unsafe situation, especially if the driver intends to stop suddenly. Honking your horn may alert the driver, but it does not change the fact that you need to adjust your own driving for safety. Changing lanes immediately without assessing the situation could create additional hazards and potential collisions. Therefore, reducing speed and preparing to stop is the safest and most responsible course of action when brake lights indicate a problem.