Practice question

Which of the following are signs a parked vehicle might pull into traffic?

  1. No one is inside the car
  2. Brake lights are not illuminated
  3. Exhaust is coming out of the tailpipe
  4. There are people inside the car

Answer: D — There are people inside the car

A parked vehicle that has people inside it may be an indication that the driver is preparing to enter traffic. When individuals are present in the vehicle, it suggests that they could be getting ready to start the engine and pull out. Observing that the vehicle is occupied should prompt other drivers to be more cautious as it is a potential sign that the car will move. In contrast, when a vehicle is unoccupied, there is a lower likelihood of it becoming operational and entering traffic immediately. Similarly, if the brake lights are not illuminated, it indicates that the vehicle is likely at rest and does not show any immediate intention to move. Additionally, the presence of exhaust coming from the tailpipe typically suggests the engine is running, but it does not specifically indicate an imminent move into traffic; it can sometimes be attributed to the vehicle warming up or idling. Therefore, the presence of people inside the vehicle is the strongest indicator of potential movement into traffic.

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