What should you do at a STOP sign?

• A. Slow down and proceed when safe.
• B. Stop completely, give way to other traffic and pedestrians, and proceed when safe.
• C. Yield to traffic, then proceed when safe.
• D. Continue through if traffic is light.

Answer: (B)

At a STOP sign, you must come to a complete stop before entering the intersection. This full stop gives you a clear view of cross traffic and pedestrians so you can decide who has the right of way. Stop at the stop line if there is one, or before the crosswalk or intersection if there isn’t. After stopping, scan in all directions for approaching vehicles and people, and yield to them as necessary. Only when the way is clear do you proceed safely through the intersection. This is why simply slowing down and going when it seems safe isn’t enough, and why you don’t just yield and roll through—both of those skip the required full stop.