Practice question

A pedestrian starts to cross in front of your vehicle. What should you do?

  1. Flash your lights.
  2. Slow down.
  3. Speed up and pass in front of the pedestrian.
  4. Stop and let the pedestrian cross.

Answer: D — Stop and let the pedestrian cross.

Stopping and allowing the pedestrian to cross is the appropriate response because pedestrians have the right of way in most situations when they are legally crossing the street. By stopping, you ensure their safety and comply with traffic laws designed to protect those on foot. This action demonstrates a sense of responsibility and respect for pedestrian traffic, which is important in maintaining a safe roadway environment. Flashing your lights, slowing down, or speeding up could potentially confuse or endanger the pedestrian. Flashing lights might suggest that you want them to stop, slowing down could still lead to a misunderstanding of your intentions, and rushing to pass could put the pedestrian at serious risk. Thus, stopping to let the pedestrian cross is the safest and most legally sound action to take when faced with such a situation.

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