What is the correct action when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the correct action is to come to a complete stop and let all crossing traffic go. This is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws. Stopping completely means that the driver must come to a full stop at the designated stop line, crosswalk, or intersection before proceeding. This allows the driver to effectively assess the situation, including the presence of oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and other potential hazards.

By stopping fully, drivers can ensure they are making informed decisions about when it is safe to continue, which is critical in preventing collisions. It is important to yield the right of way to any vehicles or pedestrians that may be crossing, as failure to do so can result in accidents and citations.

Other choices do not advocate for a complete stop under all circumstances, which could lead to dangerous situations. For instance, slowing down without fully stopping might not provide enough time to assess incoming traffic accurately. Similarly, stopping only when other vehicles are present or when making a left turn fails to account for pedestrians or other vehicles that may emerge unexpectedly.