Final answer:
You can park or stop along the freeway shoulder only in the event of an emergency. Other reasons like checking a smartphone do not qualify. Safety depends not only on following the law but also on the context of the situation, such as a medical emergency.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to traffic safety rules, you may park or stop along the shoulder of the freeway only if you have an emergency. Situations like needing to check your smartphone for directions or simply activating your emergency flashers do not constitute emergencies. Emergencies may include sudden vehicle malfunctions, medical emergencies, or other immediate threats to your safety or that of others on the road. It's imperative to note that even in emergencies, if any part of your vehicle is still on the road, it can pose a danger to ongoing traffic.
Examples of Proper Conduct in Special Situations
- In case of a medical emergency, such as a pregnant woman about to deliver with contractions, it could be morally permissible to break certain traffic rules if doing so significantly increases the likelihood of reaching medical assistance safely and quickly.
- Being observed changes behavior, so if you know you are being watched by a police car, your driving behavior will likely differ than when you are on a deserted highway.