What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the correct action is to come to a complete stop and yield to traffic. This is vital for ensuring safety at intersections, as stop signs are placed to control the flow of traffic and prevent accidents.

By stopping completely, a driver gives themselves the opportunity to properly assess their surroundings, including checking for pedestrians, bicycles, and other vehicles that may not be immediately visible. Yielding to traffic is essential, as other vehicles may have the right of way, and failing to yield could result in dangerous collisions. Additionally, stopping allows for compliance with traffic laws and regulations designed to promote safe driving practices.

The other choices do not adhere to the legal requirements or safety measures associated with approaching a stop sign. For instance, simply slowing down and proceeding with caution fails to ensure the same level of vigilance and gives the impression that the stop sign is optional. Stopping only if there are other vehicles ignores the potential presence of pedestrians and does not address the need for complete stops at all times. Lastly, ignoring the stop sign entirely poses severe risks by neglecting traffic laws and potentially causing accidents.