What action is often sufficient to handle minor traffic incidents?

Using initial control devices is often sufficient to handle minor traffic incidents because these devices are designed to quickly and effectively manage traffic flow and enhance safety at accident scenes. Initial control measures can include cones, flares, and other traffic control devices that serve to alert approaching vehicles and guide them around the incident without significantly disrupting traffic patterns.

These devices are particularly useful in minor incidents where the goal is to prevent further accidents and maintain a level of traffic movement without the need for more drastic measures such as road closures or significant detours. They can be rapidly deployed by first responders, allowing for a swift response to emergent conditions that arise from a minor accident.

In contrast, other actions like implementing full road closures or deploying barricades may be more suitable for major incidents but can cause unnecessary congestion and delays when used for minor incidents. Utilizing portable traffic signals, while effective in some situations, is not typically required for minor traffic incidents where simpler measures suffice.