What is the first step when pulling away from a bus stop?

Answer: B — Check mirrors and look for pedestrians before merging into traffic

When pulling away from a bus stop, the first step should always be to check your mirrors and look for pedestrians before merging into traffic. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals who may be crossing the road or entering the roadway after disembarking from the bus. Pedestrians, especially children and those with limited mobility, can be unpredictable. They may step into the street without warning, so taking a moment to scan your surroundings can prevent accidents. Additionally, checking the mirrors allows you to be aware of any vehicles approaching from behind or the sides, ensuring that you can merge back into traffic safely and confidently. While accelerating quickly might seem like a way to rejoin traffic smoothly, it can lead to dangerous situations if pedestrians or other vehicles are present. Sounding the horn is not an appropriate response in this situation; the horn is typically used to alert others of your presence, but not as a first action when pulling away. Waiting for a traffic light to turn green is only relevant in situations explicitly involving traffic signals, which do not apply directly to the act of leaving a bus stop. Therefore, ensuring a thorough check for pedestrian safety is the most responsible and necessary initial action.