What is an appropriate action when encountering a pedestrian unexpectedly at night?

When encountering a pedestrian unexpectedly at night, slowing down and being prepared to stop is the most appropriate action. This response allows the driver to react to the unpredictable movements of pedestrians and provides sufficient time to assess the situation. Pedestrians may be difficult to see in low-light conditions, so reducing speed gives the driver a better chance to notice them and stop if necessary.

By slowing down, the driver can ensure increased safety for both themselves and the pedestrian, as pedestrians who are not in designated crosswalks may suddenly enter the path of vehicles. Maintaining a lower speed allows the driver to respond more swiftly to unexpected behavior from pedestrians, such as stepping out onto the road or attempting to cross.

Hearing or seeing pedestrians can sometimes lead to miscalculations, and rushing past them at the same speed may not only endanger them but could lead to serious accidents. Using high beams can indeed improve visibility but may not be appropriate if there are oncoming vehicles or if the pedestrian is close, as this can create glare that impairs the driver's vision. Sounding the horn can be distracting and alarming to pedestrians, potentially leading to erratic behavior instead of encouraging safe movement. Thus, reducing speed and preparing to stop is a responsible and safe approach.