What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

When you approach a stop sign, your primary responsibility is to come to a complete stop at the intersection. This full stop ensures that you have the opportunity to look for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians before proceeding. Yielding to pedestrians is especially important since they have the right of way.

Complete stopping allows you to assess the intersection and make informed decisions about how to proceed safely. It's crucial to ensure that the area is clear of vehicles and pedestrians before you move again, which not only promotes safety but also adheres to traffic laws.

The emphasis on coming to a complete stop rather than merely slowing down or estimating your stop is vital; doing so guarantees that you are fully aware of your surroundings. This makes it clear that misjudging speeds or assuming it's safe without stopping completely can lead to dangerous situations.