What should you do now?

Your answer to slow down and switch on the hazard lights is correct because, in certain situations—such as approaching an unexpected obstruction, accident, or emergency—reducing your speed and alerting other drivers with hazard lights is required for safety. Hazard lights warn others of a potential danger or irregularity ahead, promoting caution.

Continuing to drive in the clear lane alone may not be sufficient if there is a hazard requiring others to be warned or you need to reduce speed for safety. Therefore, combining slowing down with switching on hazard lights helps prevent accidents by making your actions predictable to others.

In German traffic rules, hazard lights should be used to warn about dangers or if you have to stop or slow down abruptly on the road. Slowing down gives you better control and time to react. Together, these steps ensure both your safety and that of other road users.