If you see a vehicle stopped in your lane on an icy road and you do not have antilock brakes, what should you do?

When encountering a vehicle stopped in your lane on an icy road without the benefit of antilock brakes, the best course of action is to brake softly and maneuver to steer into an open space. This approach is correct because it allows for better control of the vehicle on slippery surfaces. Hard braking can lead to the wheels locking up, which can cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of skidding, particularly on ice. By applying gentle pressure to the brakes, you maintain traction, allowing you to slow down gradually while still being able to steer the vehicle.

Choosing to steer into an open space, when safe to do so, is also crucial. It helps you avoid a collision with the stopped vehicle while minimizing the chance of further skidding or loss of control. Being cautious in this scenario is essential, as the icy road conditions create a much higher risk of accidents.

Other options, such as accelerating to pass the vehicle or changing lanes abruptly, pose significant dangers. Accelerating could compromise control on an icy surface, while abrupt lane changes may not provide sufficient time to react to other vehicles or obstacles. Hence, the most effective and safest strategy in this situation is to brake gently while steering towards an open space.