What should a driver do when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, it is essential for a driver to come to a complete stop at the designated line, crosswalk, or intersection. This action is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users. A complete stop allows the driver to assess the intersection for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians, thus making informed decisions based on the prevailing conditions. This is a key part of defensive driving, as it helps to prevent accidents and ensures compliance with traffic laws.

While yielding to traffic and pedestrians is important in certain circumstances, the primary obligation at a stop sign is to stop completely and assess the situation. Speeding up or continuing through the stop sign disregards traffic regulations and can lead to serious consequences, including collisions and legal penalties. The requirement to stop is a fundamental rule in traffic safety that helps maintain order on the roads.