Final answer:
When visibility is hindered by curbs or hills, the safest action is to slow down and be prepared to stop to avoid possible hazards. It is important to adjust driving to conditions and to always follow traffic signals and speed limits for safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When curbs or hills keep you from seeing far enough ahead, the safest action to take is to slow down and be prepared to stop. This is because your visibility is compromised, and the road ahead may contain hazards such as pedestrians, stopped vehicles, or animals that you will need additional time to react to. Increasing your speed under such circumstances can be extremely dangerous not only to yourself but also to other road users.
Examples of situations where you must be cautious include seeing a pedestrian with a stroller, cars at an intersection, or an animal suddenly entering the road. The correct response would be to adjust your speed and prepare for potential hazards. Additionally, knowing the distance it takes for a vehicle to stop, such as a truck when the brakes are hit, is crucial in reacting appropriately to unexpected events on the road.
It's also important to heed traffic signals and posted speed limits in towns and cities, as these are designed to ensure the safety of all road users. For instance, when an ambulance is approaching, the Doppler shift in the siren will inform you of its approach, indicating when to pull over. This demonstrates an understanding of traffic dynamics and how to react to special situations, like the presence of emergency vehicles.