What should a driver do when approaching a stop sign?

When approaching a stop sign, the correct action for a driver is to come to a complete stop, look in all directions, and then proceed when it is safe to do so. This procedure is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road, including pedestrians and other vehicles. By stopping completely, a driver can assess the situation—checking for any oncoming traffic, pedestrians crossing the intersection, and other potential hazards.

This method prioritizes caution and situational awareness, which are essential components of safe driving. The requirement to look in all directions before proceeding ensures that the driver is fully aware of their surroundings and can make an informed decision about when it is safe to continue.

In contrast, simply slowing down without stopping if no cars are present, only stopping when there's oncoming traffic, or ignoring the stop sign altogether, can lead to dangerous situations. These alternatives do not adequately address the need for safety at intersections, where the risk of collisions is heightened. Therefore, the practice of stopping completely at a stop sign is foundational to responsible driving.