What should you do when you want to stop and park your vehicle outside a city, town, or build-up area?

When you want to stop and park your vehicle outside a city, town, or built-up area, driving off the traveled part of the highway onto the shoulder of the road is the safest and most appropriate action. This method allows you to safely remove your vehicle from the flow of traffic, minimizing the risk of accidents or collisions with other vehicles. It creates a safer environment for both you and other drivers, as it prevents any blockage of the roadway, ensuring smooth traffic flow.

Choosing to stop on the traveled part of the highway, even with your left turn signal flashing, can be hazardous as it positions your vehicle in a location where it could be struck by oncoming traffic. Keeping your foot on the brake pedal to activate the stop lights does not effectively solve the issue of safely parking and can contribute to confusion or road hazards for other drivers. While turning on your parking lights could provide visibility, it does not replace the need to be safely off the traveled roadway. Therefore, moving onto the shoulder when you need to stop and park is the best practice in this scenario.