Which action is recommended immediately after spotting a potential hazard on the road?

The recommended action of assessing the situation and adjusting speed or position as necessary is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. When a potential hazard is spotted, a driver must quickly evaluate the nature of the hazard—whether it's an obstacle, an unpredictable road condition, or erratic behavior from another driver. This evaluation allows the driver to determine the best course of action, which may involve slowing down, moving to a different lane, or preparing to stop altogether.

By adjusting speed or position based on the assessed risks, a driver can mitigate potential accidents and create a safer environment not just for themselves but also for other road users. This proactive approach is vital in defensive driving, where anticipating and responding to hazards is key to avoiding collisions.

In contrast, ignoring the hazard, maintaining speed with the hope that it resolves itself, or overly focusing on driving tasks without consideration for the surroundings can lead to dangerous situations. Thus, being vigilant and adjusting accordingly is the most responsible and effective option for any driver encountering a potential hazard.