If you lose engine power or control while driving, what should you do first?

When you lose engine power or control while driving, the first action to take is to turn on your emergency flashers. Activating the emergency flashers alerts other drivers that you are experiencing a problem and may not be able to maintain proper speed or control. This is vital for your safety and the safety of others on the road, as it decreases the likelihood of a collision or accident caused by unexpected behaviors of your vehicle.

The other choices are important but should follow after activating emergency flashers. Calling for roadside assistance can be done once you have made other necessary precautions, and exiting the vehicle is only advisable when it is safe to do so, not immediately. Setting out warning triangles is also a good safety measure but is typically done after ensuring that your vehicle is adequately marked and that your immediate surroundings are safe. Prioritizing visibility to other drivers by using emergency flashers is the most critical first step in responding to this dangerous situation.