Practice question

What should you do when a blind pedestrian is waiting at a crosswalk with a white cane?

  1. Honk your horn to alert them
  2. Rev your engine to get their attention
  3. Stop completely and do not distract them
  4. Drive slowly past the crosswalk

Answer: C — Stop completely and do not distract them

When a blind pedestrian is waiting at a crosswalk with a white cane, the appropriate response is to stop completely and do not distract them. The use of a white cane signals that the pedestrian is visually impaired and relies on their other senses, particularly hearing and touch, to navigate their surroundings. By stopping, you allow the pedestrian to safely assess the situation and cross the street when they perceive it is clear. Horns or engine revving can create confusion and may lead to dangerous situations as the pedestrian might misinterpret the sound or become startled. Ensuring that you remain in a stationary position gives them the confidence to proceed safely, making it imperative to respect their ability to travel without unexpected distractions. This approach aligns with traffic laws that prioritize the safety of pedestrians, especially those who are visually impaired.

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