Practice question

What should you do if you see a pedestrian in a crosswalk?

  1. Speed up to pass them
  2. Stop and allow them to cross
  3. Honk your horn to alert them
  4. Drive around them cautiously

Answer: B — Stop and allow them to cross

When you see a pedestrian in a crosswalk, stopping to allow them to cross is the correct action. This practice is crucial for pedestrian safety and is required by law in Massachusetts, as well as in many other states. Crosswalks are designated areas where pedestrians have the right-of-way to cross the street, and drivers are obligated to yield to them. By stopping, you help ensure that the pedestrian can safely make their way across the road without the risk of an accident. This action promotes public safety and is a key aspect of responsible driving behavior. Additionally, it shows respect for pedestrians and reinforces the importance of teamwork in sharing the road. The other responses present actions that could endanger the pedestrian. Speeding up, honking, or attempting to drive around the pedestrian can create confusion or danger, potentially leading to accidents. Those behaviors do not prioritize the safety of individuals who are crossing the street and violate traffic laws designed to protect vulnerable road users.

Practice more: Massachusetts Permit Practice Test →